Employer hiring TAC client RTW FAQs
I've employed someone with a TAC claim. How do I access TAC support?
If the TAC (or one of our return to work specialists) has organised the position with you, we will continue to work with you through the return to work process to ensure a safe and successful transition.
If a TAC client has applied for a job with you independently, please contact us so we can put supports in place for you and our client to ensure a safe and sustainable return to work.
Can I expect my new employee to be fully fit?
In most circumstances, a person is fully fit for the duties required of them. If your new employee does have any restrictions, you will be made aware of these, however they would normally not impact on what is required of them in the role.
Depending on the length of time out of the workforce due to injury, the client may require a graded return to work. So, although they are cleared as fully fit to undertake the required duties, it may be recommended that they increase their work hours and/or work demands over a number of weeks.
I’m worried that if I employ someone who isn’t fully fit, my business may suffer due to lost productivity. What type of assistance
As part of the employer incentive package, the TAC can consider paying a wage subsidy to compensate your business while you support your new employee in their return to work.
These subsidies will be developed with the help of a return to work specialist and will be agreed upon by all parties before any return to work program commences, so you know exactly what to expect.
What happens if the worker injures themselves during their new employment?
Contact the TAC immediately to discuss the injury and the next steps.
Depending on the injury, the return to work program can be modified or suspended for a period, and/or a WorkCover claim form can be lodged. As an employer, you are given premium protection in the event of an accepted WorkCover claim during a TAC return to work program, regardless of the nature of the injury. In addition, the TAC will reimburse the WorkCover excess incurred as a result of that claim.
Where a WorkCover claim is lodged, the TAC’s insurer will assess the claim as per the normal processes.
Who will pay for sick leave if my new employee has to have time off for treatment of their accident injuries?
It is expected that your new employee arrange any medical appointments outside of work time.
However if your new employee has to have time off work due to their accident injuries, they need to advise the TAC of this via a certificate of capacity, or a medical report from their treating practitioner.
If approved, the TAC can organise a reimbursement to you for the sick leave taken or pay the TAC client directly for the time they require off work.
How long will it take to receive the wage subsidies? Who can I contact for support?
When the return to work program is established, you will be provided with an email address or fax number where payslips must be sent.
Generally, payments will be received in your bank account within two business days, once the TAC income officer has received all the necessary paperwork and has processed the payment.
How long will the return to work specialist be involved in my employee’s return to work?
The return to work specialist will monitor your new employee for a minimum of 12 weeks once their return to work goal has been achieved. In some instances, a new employee may need support for a longer period. This can be negotiated between the return to work specialist, the TAC and any other relevant party involved in the return to work program (e.g. GP, occupational therapist).
If your new employee requires further support after the return to work specialist has ceased services, please contact your employee’s TAC coordinator. The coordinator can talk to you about available options to assist your employee in maintaining their employment.
