Overview

• Treasurer Daniel Mookhey confirmed the Exposure Workers Compensation Bill will be introduced in parliament on Tuesday following union opposition to initial proposals.
• A new “expedited” process will fast-track psychological injury claims related to bullying or harassment, promising decisions within eight weeks and partial payments during assessment.
• The whole person impairment threshold for mental injuries will be phased from 15% to 25% in October 2025 and above 30% from July 2026, significantly reducing eligibility for long-term benefits.
• The definition of vicarious trauma is broadened to include repeated exposure to others’ traumatic experiences and “excessive work demands” is added as a compensable cause.
• The government earmarks A$344 million for workplace mental health measures, including more SafeWork NSW inspectors and expanded psychological support services.