The final report of the independent comprehensive review of the Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988, the legislative framework that underpins the Commonwealth Comcare workers’ compensation scheme. The review was established to make recommendations for reform of the Act. 

Since the Act’s commencement in 1988, workers have been profoundly affected by national and international events, including the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. There has been a rise of work-from-home arrangements, the emergence of new industries, the ageing of our workforce, a greater focus on work health and safety, and shifts in the types and causes of workers’ compensation claims. The legislation needs to reflect and be able to respond to these developments. 

The review was completed in 6 phases between July 2024 and September 2025. There was considerable overlap between some phases due to their importance and the extensive work involved. The phases were: 

1. planning and initial research
2. research
3. consultation
4. analysis
5. draft report
6. final report. 

The review made 124 recommendations, focussing on:

• best practice in workers’ compensation
• workers’ experience of the scheme
• scheme coverage and entitlements
• governance and administration
• reducing disputes.