WorkCover Observer

Videosurveillance is undertaken by insurers to assist in the assessment of various types of claims e.g. worker's compensation or disability claims. While it may assist decisions about claims, surveillance can be psychologically traumatic for those persons being filmed. It is also costly. Fair surveillance is that which is done only when necessary (there is no alternative means to obtain the required information), there is respect for the privacy of individuals in their own homes and schools and avoids filming others who are not meant to be the subject of the surveillance. Surveillance should only be authorised by a person who can fairly weigh up the benefits and risks and the potential for harm and ensure it is conducted in accordance with the applicable laws. This is fair surveillance.

Independent Medical Examinations (IME's) are medical assessments usually organised by a third party to assist in the assessment of a claim e.g. worker's compensation or other type of insurance or disability benefits claim. Independent Medical Examiners should be unbiased and impartial and not provide an opinion to suit the requesting party. They cannot be the person's own doctor/physician. They should only provide an opinion in areas of their medical expertise and their opinion should be evidence-based. Independent medical examiners should not express a final opinion without having all the relevant information to provide an opinion and should seek further information if it is not available at the time of the assessment. They should treat the person being assessed with respect and conduct the assessment in a completely professional manager in accordance with medical ethical principles. This is a fair IME.

Various state-based Australian Government organisations that oversee the workers compensation systems in their respective states. In WA, NT and Tasmania the WorkCover Authorities (or their equivalents) oversee a system of private underwritten insurers, whereas in NSW, SA and Victoria the scheme is underwritten by government, and administered either by private insurers or directly by WorkCover claims staff.