Other return to work coordinator arrangements

Under these arrangements, employers must ensure the RTW coordinator has the authority to represent and make decisions for the employer on the functions associated with the role.

Employers should appoint a RTW coordinator who has well-established relationships with workers and a good understanding of all aspects of the workplace.

Category 1 employers must appoint someone with the relevant training, skills and experience to perform the role and functions of a return to work (RTW) coordinator.

Category 2 employers do not need to appoint a RTW coordinator, but they should nominate someone to manage any workers compensation and recovery at work activities that arise. This may be an existing employee or an RTW coordinator who is engaged through a work arrangement or contract.

Category 2 employers may also set up a shared arrangement with other employers. Under this arrangement, an employer association, a union, or a group of employers in the same business or location could share an RTW coordinator.

Employers who choose to outsource this role and engage an RTW coordinator under an alternative work contract or shared arrangement must ensure:

• the RTW coordinator has relevant training, skills and experience
• they provide reasonable access to workers and the workplace
• the arrangement will not disadvantage workers
• they consult the workforce before proceeding
• there is no perceived or actual conflict of interest for the appointed person
• the other employers in a shared arrangement are in the same business or location
• the RTW program details the arrangements, including the person’s name, qualifications and experience
• the suitability of the arrangement is reviewed every two years as part of the RTW program review.

Learn about the role of the RTW coordinator.

Further information

• Guidelines for workplace return to work programs