This biennial summary report outlines significant developments in workers’ compensation schemes in Australia and New Zealand between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024. 

Workers’ compensation schemes aim to minimise the cost and impact of work-related injury and illness. Workers’ compensation in Australia is predominately jurisdictionally based, with coverage of injured workers generally based on the location of employment. There are 11 main workers’ compensation schemes in Australia, one for each state and territory and three Commonwealth schemes.

In contrast to Australia, New Zealand has a no-fault accident insurance scheme covering everyone who is injured in New Zealand, including workers, drivers, children, beneficiaries, students, unemployed, retirees and visitors.

Workers’ compensation schemes in Australia continue to evolve to meet emerging trends in relation to the changing nature of work. This report provides an overview of recent developments in workers’ compensation schemes across all jurisdictions, including:

• administration and scheme delivery changes
• policy developments
• legislative amendments.