The NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) has extended the role of psychologists and physiotherapists in certifying an injured person’s fitness for work after the change was introduced last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A doctor must issue the initial certificate, but treating physios and psychologists have been allowed to issue second and following certificates if the injury falls within their area of expertise under a change made to relieve pressure on medical practitioners and the healthcare system during the pandemic.

SIRA says it has extended the rule change for the workers’ compensation and motor accidents schemes for another 12 months.

“These arrangements support the NSW Government’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” SIRA said.