Age will no longer be a factor for WA’s workforce following the abolition of age-based limits on workers’ compensation claims.

State Commerce Minister Simon O’Brien says legislative changes passed last week will give all employees equal entitlements.

He says the Workers Compensation and Injury Management Act 1981 previously unfairly discriminated against workers over the age of 64, restricting compensation payments to one year of income payments.

The changes also include the extension of the safety net that will come into effect from October 1. This provides that all seriously injured workers are protected if their employers are uninsured.

“These changes mean contribution of older workers to the WA economy and society are recognised in the legislation,” Mr O’Brien said.

The WA Government also plans to introduce changes to the dispute resolution process in December, allowing for greater conciliation and arbitration services.