WorkCover NSW has decided which agents will provide claims and policies for new compensation payouts.

WorkCover CEO Vivek Bhatia announced the groups that will enter into a new contract on behalf of the Nominal Insurer in the NSW workers' compensation scheme.

Ms Bhatia says the following scheme agents will begin services under the new contract starting in 2015.

· Allianz Australia Workers’ Compensation (NSW)
· CGU Workers Compensation (NSW) Limited
· Employers Mutual NSW Limited
· GIO General Limited
· QBE Workers compensation (NSW) Ltd

“These organisations were selected on the basis of their experience and expertise in delivering workers compensation services and outcomes, after a competitive and rigorous procurement process,” Mr Bhatia said.

“The new arrangements provide an opportunity to sustain the momentum of previous reforms and make a positive shift in the way scheme agents deliver services to drive return to work outcomes, and deliver better customer service whilst maintaining the financial sustainability of the scheme.

While many workers and employers will notice no change, some employer policies and injured worker claims will transfer to another insurer.

Gallagher Bassett Services (GBS) and Xchanging, who currently operate in the scheme, were not appointed under the new arrangements.

As a result, during 2015 all claims and policies managed by Gallagher Bassett and Xchanging will be transferred as directed by the Nominal Insurer. It is anticipated that the transfer process will be completed by 31 December 2015.

In 2015, WorkCover will set up a specially-designed framework to manage the claims of seriously injured workers.

The framework will involve specialist case managers who are highly skilled and experienced, to ensure injured workers receive the appropriate level of care, treatment and support.

WorkCover says it will provide information and assistance to affected employers and workers throughout the transition to ensure a smooth transfer process with minimal disruption.

The new contract will be in place for three years, but may be extended for an additional two years.