The NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA) says it has been advised of 162 workers’ compensation claims or notifications related to COVID-19.

The number, as of 4pm Friday, includes data from the Nominal Insurer, Treasury Managed Fund and Self and Specialised Insurers schemes.

Confirmed cases totalled 26 while there are 97 cases related to exposure to someone who may have been infected with the virus. A further 30 cases are listed under a mental disorder category and nine for other injuries and diseases.

SIRA says it is keeping track of claims using data provided daily by insurers and will update and expand its report as more information becomes available.

State-owned icare said earlier this month it has reduced workers’ compensation premiums for more than 2000 businesses and has suspended policies for a number of firms as part of coronavirus support measures.

Key assistance measures being offered include deferring premium payments for up to six months for businesses experiencing hardship, while reduced premiums or a refund may apply where customers’ wages and coverage have been changed to reflect new circumstances.

Customers may also receive refunds on unused portions of their premium, while keeping their policy active for when they resume business.