The Queensland Government, under the Crisafulli Administration, has launched a major crackdown on fraudulent workers’ compensation claims, reinforcing its zero-tolerance stance and declaring an end to what officials called a decade of decline. The government has already recovered more than $250,000 in 2024–25 as part of comprehensive measures to strengthen fraud protection and detection.

The reforms are designed to ensure suspected fraud is reported quickly, investigations are coordinated, and staff are fully equipped to identify and stop “rorts” before they impact businesses and taxpayers. Key initiatives introduced include:

• Fraud Taskforce: A joint effort with the Regulator established to coordinate strategies for prevention, investigation, and prosecution.
• Fraud Tip-Off Form: A streamlined process for WorkCover employees to report suspected fraud.
• Internal Fraud Hub: A dedicated internal resource offering guidance and information on related matters.
• Fraud Awareness Week and 2026 Education Plan: Comprehensive programs to educate staff on identifying and reporting fraud.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie stated that the crackdown marks a decisive shift. He criticized the previous Labor government, claiming they “allowed fraudsters to thrive and eroded confidence in Queensland’s workers’ compensation scheme”. Bleijie asserted that Labor “turned a blind eye to fraudulent claims” for a decade, but this era is over as the Crisafulli Government restores integrity.

“Queensland businesses and taxpayers deserve better and we remain steadfast in ensuring Queensland’s workers’ compensation scheme is fair, sustainable, and protected,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said, adding a clear warning: “We are sending a clear message – if you commit fraud, you will be caught, prosecuted, and held accountable”.

The crackdown aligns with WorkCover Queensland’s newly prioritized fraud detection in its Corporate Plan, which is working closely with the Office of Industrial Relations to enhance fraud management and protect businesses from unfair premium hikes. In 2024–25, the Office of Industrial Relations investigated 164 suspected fraud cases and initiated six prosecutions under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003.

These fraud prevention measures were announced shortly after the Crisafulli Government, through new leadership appointed to WorkCover Queensland, chose not to raise WorkCover premiums this financial year. The WorkCover board opted to freeze the average premium rate at $1.343 per $100 of wages, after discounts, providing certainty for businesses. Queensland continues to maintain the lowest average premium rate of any centrally funded state or territory. This freeze follows a period under the former Labor Government where the average premium rate increased by almost 12 per cent over three years.