Insurance & Care NSW (icare) is recruiting a 30-strong workers’ compensation claims team to offer an enhanced service for customers.

The state insurer launched its new claims model on January 1, including an online portal where employers, workers or their representatives can lodge notifications.

It is now working on phase two of the project, which will include a single claims platform.

icare had previously announced the appointment of EML as sole agent for new claims, with CGU and QBE ceasing services and GIO and Allianz continuing as transition agents.

Allianz will “disengage” before the end of this year but icare says EML and GIO have arrangements until 2020.

An icare spokesman says the organisation has been working with EML “to bed down changes” and plan the release of “an enhanced technology platform and operation”.

“At the start, we agreed to support EML with additional claims teams and facilities at icare premises,” the spokesman said. “Our premises in Wollongong are being prepared for operations to support the additional claims team.

“This team will initially be testing and training on the new platforms in readiness for taking new claims.

“We have currently committed to recruiting 30 new claims management specialists, who will be able to work in different parts of the icare claims model.

“icare is committed to serving our regional customers through an expanded regional footprint with centres at Gosford, Newcastle, Lismore and Wollongong.”

icare says the end result will be more efficient processing of claims.

“It will also free up the claims teams in EML and GIO so they can spend more time focusing on injured workers, rather than processes.”