The NSW Government’s introduction of a second workers compensation reform bill seeks to bypass proper parliamentary and public scrutiny and undermines the democratic process. 

The Workers Compensation Legislation Amendment (Reform and Modernisation) Bill 2025 has been introduced to parliament, despite the government’s previous bill being the subject of an ongoing Inquiry of the Public Accountability and Works Committee. 

The referral of the previous bill to two separate inquiry processes speaks to the significance of the proposed reform for the economy and for injured workers, and to Parliamentary processes appropriately recognising the need for close scrutiny and consultation.

The Law Society agrees that the present workers compensation scheme needs reform. However, by introducing this second bill without comprehensive consultation, and without the benefit of the report and recommendations of the Public Accountability and Works Committee, the Government is compounding the inadequacy of the consultation process relating to these reforms from their inception. 

We are deeply concerned about the Government’s disregard for the vote of the Legislative Council to initiate the Inquiry, the work of the Public Accountability and Works Committee, and the many witnesses – including the Law Society of NSW – who provided submissions and gave evidence in the Inquiry’s public hearing.

The development of effective, fair and workable legislation relies on governments observing proper parliamentary processes. Respect for, and observance of, good public administration, is critical to safeguard the public interest and preserve the integrity of our democratic institutions.

The Law Society repeats the call in our submission to the Public Accountability and Works Committee, that the Government should return this legislation to the design stage, and engage in meaningful and inclusive consultation, rather than proceed with another rushed bill. 

The Law Society will examine the new bill in detail and convey its concerns to government.