ReturnToWorkSA has hailed improved outcomes for employers and employees following “a very big year” for the state’s revamped work injury scheme.

“It is very pleasing that we have been able to continue the improvements in… performance from both a financial sustainability perspective for employers and return-to-work outcomes for people with a work injury,” Chairman Jane Yuile said when releasing the 2014/15 report.

The State Government’s Return to Work Act 2014 took effect on July 1, replacing the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1986.

ReturnToWorkSA reports continued improvement in claims management performance.

“Since Greg McCarthy was appointed as CEO in December 2012, he and his team’s active management in running the scheme has consistently delivered results,” Ms Yuile said.

“They have worked closely with our claims agents to implement early intervention strategies, including 100 mobile case managers on the road providing face-to-face support that have helped workers and employers achieve faster, safer and more sustainable return-to-work outcomes.”

In March the board reduced the average premium rate by nearly 30% to 1.95% of wages, the lowest in the scheme’s history, saving $180 million for SA businesses.

“Although this is a very good result, it is still early days for the… scheme,” Ms Yuile said.

“There will no doubt be factors that will have both a favourable and unfavourable impact from a financial perspective. The volatile investment market remains a significant risk to our financial performance.”

ReturnToWorkSA has also announced a new training and skills assessment program for workers unable to return to their pre-injury roles.