***Thursday, 22 May 2025, 8:00AM Victory Memorial Gardens, Wagga Wagga***
WHAT: Essential workers from across the Riverina will rally to oppose the NSW government's proposed cuts to workers compensation, which would drastically limit mental health support for injured workers.
WHO: Local nurses, teachers, emergency service workers, and other essential workers
WHY: The NSW government's proposed changes would:
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Require traumatised workers to undertake legal proceedings before accessing mental health care and support.
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Implement a 30% Whole Person Impairment threshold – Australia's harshest – excluding 95% of legitimate psychological injury claims from long term support and care.
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Rush through changes by 1 July 2025
PHOTO/INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES:
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Local workers sharing personal stories about workplace psychological injuries
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NSW Teachers Federation Organiser Kelly Bowman available for interviews
LOCAL IMPACT:
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97% of Riverina workers have experienced psychological hazards at work
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62% of Wagga Wagga frontline workers report being exposed to trauma and traumatic events
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81% of local workers believe the NSW Government’s WPI changes will force injured workers to return to work before it is safe for them to do so
MEDIA CONTACT: Kelly Bowman, NSW Teachers Federation: 0419 589 179
