Policy and Advocacy Compensation Schemes Update July 19

The Western Australia Workers Compensation Fees Order has been updated, effective as of 1 July 2024. These changes are the result of amendments to regulations and administrative instruments aimed at facilitating the implementation of the new Worker’s Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023.   

We understand that these changes may be causing significant stress and concern for our members working under the scheme. OTA has been actively advocating on your behalf to mitigate these impacts. As an organisation, OTA argued strongly against proposals that would have had significant implications for occupational therapists. The proposal included a reduction in fees for occupational therapists for consultations above 60 minutes to decrease from a flat rate of $219.25 to a flat rate of $164.50 for consultations over 45 minutes, as well as a reduction in fees for travel and a flat fee for reports. OTA provided feedback on proposed amendments to the regulations and administrative instruments. In addition to our submission, we wrote to the Hon Simone McGurk MLA, Minister for Training and Workforce Development, to express our concern about these proposals.  

While our efforts were successful in preventing a reduction in OT fees for consultations over one hour, two of the proposals opposed by OTA have been adopted. A lower travel fee has been implemented—previously, OTs could bill $219 per hour; they can now only charge $177.35 per hour. Additionally, a flat fee of $111 for reports has been introduced. OTA advocated that OTs be allowed to bill for reports at their standard hourly rate, but this was not accepted. We recognise the impact these changes will have on your practice and livelihood, and we share your concern.  

OTA remains committed to supporting our members and will continue to advocate for fair and reasonable conditions for occupational therapists. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to email us. 

ReturntoWorkSA is seeking feedback on how they can best support allied and mental health professionals in the health care of workers in the scheme. The agency is looking to hear from allied and mental health professionals to know what information, education and support would be most useful for ReturnToWorkSA to provide that would assist providers to help workers with their recovery and return to work. They would also like to understand how providers would like to access these options. You can complete this short survey (10 mins) on your preferences here. The survey is open until 15 August and can be found here.