Thousands to rally against NSW workers' comp changes

13/06/2012 - Up to 10,000 people are expected to rally on Wednesday in protest at the NSW government's proposed changes to the workers compensation scheme.

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The government claims premiums will skyrocket if a $4.1 billion deficit isn't reined in, but unions fear the WorkCover reforms will lead to injured workers having their benefits slashed.

About 30 people from TAFE, the ABC, the Powerhouse and UTS gathered in Sydney's inner west on Tuesday to voice their concerns over the potential cuts.

Unions NSW secretary Mark Lennon addressed the group, saying it was important that as many people as possible participate in Wednesday's march outside NSW Parliament House.

"This is an issue that effects all workers, whether they're in the public or private sector," Lennon said.

"There's about three million workers in NSW affected by these changes.

"Anyone can get injured at work at any time, and as a consequence of these changes they won't have the coverage they now have."

Under the proposed changes, workers would lose protection on their way to and from work, medical expenses would be capped, and compensation would be cut off after two and a half years.

Wednesday's march will coincide with the handing down in parliament of a report containing changes to Workcover.

Lennon said a large attendance would "send a message to the government".

"There is a high degree of disquiet within the community about their proposals," Lennon said.

"We're expecting somewhere between five and ten thousand (on Wednesday), which will be a very good turnout."

The rally begins at 12.30pm and workers representing a range of sectors are expected to attend.

Nurses in NSW have also voted to stop work on Wednesday over the WorkCover overhaul.

NSW Nurses Association general secretary Brett Holmes said rallies would be held across the state after a preliminary assessment of the plan indicated that nurses and midwives could face a 20 per cent pay cut in the fourth month after their work injury.

Source: AAP

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