The Beaconsfield Mine collapse has refocused attention on Tasmania’s workers’ compensation scheme. Australian Workers Union National Secretary Bill Shorten says the family of Larry Knight, who died in the incident, is unlikely to receive a generous compensation order.

The state’s WorkCover Authority has not released any figures yet, but many industry observers are predicting a low final payout. One newspaper, using precedents and information on the miner’s earnings, has suggested the family will receive $196,000 in compensation. The payment could be increased if the mine operators are found to be at fault.

Mr Shorten says it is still too early to speculate on the Knight case. But, speaking in general terms, he believes the local scheme can afford to be much more generous.

“I think the laws in Tasmania – and Australia – are too mean on people who get killed at work,” he told the ABC.

He says the relatively small payments are elements of a system that needs to be overhauled.

A spokesman for CGU, which handles workers’ compensation insurance at the Beaconsfield Mine, says it will do all it can to fast-track the claims. “CGU is committed to making sure that Larry Knight’s family, Todd Russell and Brant Webb receive their workers’ compensation as quickly as possible,” he said.

The company will also provide them with support to “help ensure they receive their full entitlements”.