Significant changes have been made to WorkCover WA, with all registered psychologists added as accepted providers from 1 July 2024. Prior to this, only psychologists with clinical or counselling endorsement we accepted into the scheme. This has been a large undertaking involving input from many stakeholders, and we thank WorkCover WA for listening and making this change.
In AAPi’s submission to the consultation with WorkCover WA last year, AAPi highlighted that WA was the sole jurisdiction in Australia that imposed restrictions on psychologists based on the endorsement. AAPi highlighted concerns about discrimination, evidence-based decision-making, and equitable access to psychological care for those who need it.
The practical implication of these restrictions was reduced accessibility of psychological care for injured workers. By restricting access to only two endorsement areas, WorkCover WA created barriers for injured workers needing psychological support.
We urged WorkCover WA to reconsider this policy and consider aligning it with the prevailing practices in other states and territories. By promoting equal access to all qualified psychologists, injured workers can receive the best possible care tailored to their individual needs without facing unnecessary barriers.
Summary of changes:
- The new Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 2023 has replaced the previous 1981 Act with this new Act beginning on the 1st of July, 2024. New regulations, administrative instruments, and supporting infrastructure are being developed to ensure operational readiness1.
- From 1 July 2024, WorkCover WA will recognise all registered psychologists to contribute to helping injured workers return to or remain at work.
- If clients wish to access psychologists, they can do so with the recommendation of their GP. This change allows for better mental health support and treatment for workers involved in accidents or experiencing work-related mental health issues. Before this change, many clients found it difficult to access psychological care.
The order and schedule of fees can be found here.
The extension of psychology service provision to all registered psychologists has been a considerable step forward. WorkCover WA has adopted a ‘two-tier’ fee schedule with psychologists who hold clinical or counselling endorsement remunerated at a higher rate. AAPi was very clear in our submission that we recommended that all psychologists be renumerated to the same fee level for the same service, and we will continue to push for this in our advocacy. We still see this as a significant win, with greater access to the public for return-to-work services through the recognition of all psychologists within the scheme. We are currently in negotiations with WorkCover WA to amend their fee schedule.