The Victorian Ombudsman has begun an investigation into workers’ compensation claims management in the state following a rising number of complaints.

The inquiry will examine whether WorkSafe Victoria agents – Allianz, CGU, QBE, Xchanging and Gallagher Bassett Services – unreasonably denied liability or terminated entitlements for people injured at work, and whether this was done for financial incentives.

It will focus on agents’ use of independent medical examinations, and will also consider whether WorkSafe is providing effective oversight.

The Ombudsman received 370 complaints about WorkSafe agents last financial year, and the Accident Compensation Conciliation Service reports conciliation request rises of 13.6% in 2013/14, and 5.2% last financial year.

WorkSafe Victoria says it has begun providing information to the Ombudsman and will co-operate fully. “While WorkSafe and its agents manage the claims of more than 90,000 injured workers every year, we are always looking to improve the service we provide every injured worker,” a spokesman said.

Allianz told insuranceNEWS.com.au it has “no comment on the inquiry”, while QBE “won’t be saying anything at this stage”.