Connect2work information for workers and host employers
This factsheet is also available as a pdf
The program
Connect2work is a voluntary short-term work placement with a host employer. It supports recovery at work for workers with a work-related injury where:
- their pre-injury employer is unable to offer suitable work or
- they are looking for new employment.
- The host employer receives an assistance payment of $200 per week.
How does it help?
Workers
- stay active and maintain a routine
- continue their recovery at work
- increase tasks and capacity for work
Host employers
$200 per weeks for up to 12 weeks to assist with on the job-training and cover any out of pocket expenses.
Eligibility criteria
Workers
- have capacity for work for 15 hours or more per week
- pre-injury employer is unable to offer suitable work
- receiving, or entitled to receive, weekly payments under the Workers Compensation Act 1987
Host employers
- different employer to the pre-injury employer
- have no workers compensation liability to the trainee
- hold a current workers compensation policy or self-insurer licence and other appropriate insurances
- can provide adequate training and supervision to the worker.
Implementing the program
Step 1 | The worker, employer, workplace rehabilitation provider (provider) or insurer considers the program may be an appropriate recover at work strategy. The insurer engages a provider if not already involved. |
Step 2 | The provider locates a potential host employer and confirms they can offer a suitable placement. The provider conducts a workplace assessment (can be done remotely), to ensure the trainee is matched to the role and appropriate work health and safety practices are in place. A Recover At Work plan is developed and the Connect2work host agreement completed. Both are submitted to the insurer. |
Step 3 | If the worker and employer meet eligibility criteria, the insurer signs the Connect2work host agreement and sends copies to relevant parties. |
Step 4 | The provider facilitates the start of the placement and monitors the recovery at work. |
Step 5 | The host employer submits the claim for the assistance payment to the provider. The provider verifies and sends it to the insurer. The timing of payments should be agreed by the host employer and the insurer. |
More information
Talk with the worker, the workplace rehabilitation provider or read the Connect2work guidance material to understand how the program works.
Contact SIRA on 13 10 50 or email [email protected]