Review of initiatives into workforce re-engagement of long term disengaged workers: final report

This research project aimed to assess whether lessons learned from transitioning the long term unemployed into sustainable employment through labour market programs, may be applicable to long term workers’ compensation beneficiaries. The researchers findings are summarised under the following key headings: (1) assessment of the labour market environment and impact on re-engagement of long term disengaged; (2) specific initiatives and programs, their effectiveness and applicability to injured workers; and (3) the limitations there are if applied to a worker’s compensation environment. The research suggests that recent reforms to WorkCover emphasise the importance of return to work both as a process on the pathway to rehabilitation and as an important outcome for the injured worker. Labour market programs and providers as illustrated through the Commonwealth’s Disability Employment Network (DEN) and Vocational Rehabilitation Service (VRS) can make a positive contribution in returning injured workers to paid employment. In partnership with employers and industry associations, well targeted, discrete training programs can be an aid in facilitating return to work.

Excerpts from published executive summary reprinted by permission of the copyright owner.

This research project aimed to assess whether lessons learned from transitioning the long term unemployed into sustainable employment through labour market programs, may be applicable to long term workers’ compensation beneficiaries. The researchers findings are summarised under the following key headings: (1) assessment of the labour market environment and impact on re-engagement of long term disengaged; (2) specific initiatives and programs, their effectiveness and applicability to injured workers; and (3) the limitations there are if applied to a worker’s compensation environment. ...  [+] Show more