NIBA / Representation
Shaping the Agenda
NIBA plays a key role in influencing public policy and advocating for the interests of the broking profession. In this edition of Shaping the Agenda, we provide insights into NIBA’s latest engagements with government, regulators, and key stakeholders. NSW Workers’ Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 The National Insurance Brokers Association (NIBA) has been actively engaged in the policy debate surrounding the NSW Government’s proposed reforms to the state’s workers’ compensation scheme, with a particular focus on psychological injury claims and the scheme’s long-term viability. The Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2025 proposes significant changes, including raising the Whole Person Impairment (WPI) threshold for psychological injuries from 15% to 31%, and restricting compensable injuries to those resulting from defined “relevant events”. The Government has argued these reforms are necessary to address rising psychological claims and mounting pressure on the Nominal Insurer and Treasury Managed Fund (TMF). Following the release of the Exposure Draft, the NSW Standing Committee on Law and Justice held a public hearing, hearing evidence from a wide range of stakeholders including unions, business groups, mental health advocates, and regulators.
NSW Shadow Treasurer the Hon. Damien Tudehope with NIBA Vice-President Rebecca Wilson, Head of Policy & Advocacy Allyssa Hextell, and CEO Richard Klipin.
The Hon. Rod Roberts MLC with NIBA Vice-President Rebecca Wilson and CEO Richard Klipin.
In its submission, NIBA acknowledged the need for reform but cautioned that limiting access to compensation alone would not resolve the scheme’s structural problems. NIBA highlighted three cost drivers: the increasing liability of psychological injury claims, delays and inconsistencies in claims management, and the admission of non-work-related claims. NIBA called for targeted reform focused on improved governance, oversight and operational performance, while preserving fair access for injured workers.
NIBA held discussions with key crossbench and opposition members including the Hon. Rod Roberts MLC, the Hon. Taylor Martin MLC, and Shadow Treasurer the Hon. Damien Tudehope, to discuss the importance of a balanced and sustainable scheme that protects workers and supports business certainty. Following growing concern, the Legislative Council referred the Bill to the Public Accountability and Works Committee for further scrutiny. As part of this latest inquiry, NIBA appeared before the Committee represented by CEO Richard
8 / INSURANCE ADVISER JUNE/JULY 2025
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