Protect Qld workers compo scheme, unions urge govt

30/08/2012 - Unions are so concerned about the Queensland government's cost-cutting mentality they've urged it to protect the state's workers compensation scheme — even before it's in trouble.

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In a pre-emptive move on Wednesday, Queensland Council of Unions president John Battams held a forum to discuss potential risks to the scheme, which is under state government review.

Battams says recent reviews in NSW and Victoria have led to changes, including reduced payouts for injured workers, and more barriers to access compensation.

He said Queensland's scheme was the country's best, but given the "doom and gloom" surrounding the government and its plan to cut jobs to claw back debt, it may not be for much longer.

"We're getting on the front foot to defend the scheme should there be any attempt to water it down," he told reporters.

Battams feared the government would be pressured by employers to reduce premiums and take away benefits.

"We think the status quo is fair ... so we want to keep it the way it is," he said.

Attorney General Jarrod Bleijie was unavailable for comment.

Source: AAP

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