“Worker Assist Tasmania will be a huge relief for workers who suffer an illness or injury due to their employment” says Kevin Harkins, Secretary of Unions Tasmania.

“The Worker Assist Tasmania program offers a mechanism to provide strong support when workers are at their most vulnerable.”

“While the service was at the initiative of Unions Tasmania, the support we have received from Minister David O’Byrne and the WorkCover Board has been incredible.”

“All the members of the WorkCover Board spoke in support of establishing this service. It is a credit to them and the community focus the Board has. I thank them and the Minister sincerely for their support in helping to establish this valuable service.”

“It is only when you suffer a work related illness or injury that you realise how complex the system can be”

Kelly Ann Webb recently had to work her way through the Workers Compensation system and found it confusing and at times intimidating.

“I originally tried to struggle through the workers compensation process alone. It was confusing and stressful and only added to the worry of my condition. It was only after I sought help from my Union that things became clearer, having a specialist service available would be a huge relief to injured workers” Ms. Webb said.

“Worker Assist will provide that specialist service. It will take us some time to get up to full speed but the service is available from today.” Mr. Harkins said.

“We will also be helping those that have been unfortunate enough to have been exposed to asbestos. Claimants under the new Asbestos Compensation Scheme will also be able to get assistance from Worker Assist Tasmania when making a claim.”