Independent Pittwater MP Jacqui Scruby says the resolution of the long-running workers’ compensation deadlock is a huge relief for small businesses and community organisations, who were staring down steep premium hikes next year.

Ms Scruby said the final position was the result of negotiations and amendments between the Government, independents and the Opposition, which will deliver savings for business and put key protections for injured workers in place. The final resolution includes agreements put forward by independents and supported by Business NSW, and further negotiations by the Coalition. It incorporates the removal of retrospectivity, a hold on increases whilst Whole Person Impairment (WPI) for psychological injury is reviewed, clearer definitions around unsafe workloads, fairer WPI thresholds and stronger safeguards against drawn-out court challenges.

“The announcement today is a huge win for a collaborative approach to reforming policy. It was unfathomable that the Liberals held up this deal, putting businesses at risk and their new position is a positive step forward. It means businesses can keep their doors open, community services can keep operating, and injured workers get better support than was originally proposed by the NSW Government,” Ms Scruby said. 

“In August, I secured the Premier’s commitment in question time that if Workers Compensation passed, the NSW Government would reinstate a new and improved Business Connect. It’s great to see that a deal has been reached, and that commitment will be delivered. I now look forward to local businesses being able to take advantage of this useful extra support, which was otherwise going to be axed.

“Independents worked hard to push both sides towards a practical, sensible solution – and I’m glad it worked and common sense finally won.

“We all want a system that protects workers, helps them recover and keeps premiums stable. Today’s agreement gives everyone certainty and a path forward.”

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Details of Jacqui Scruby MP’s question and Premier Minns' response to Jacqui on Business Connect - 7 August 2025: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/Hansard/Pages/HansardResult.aspx#/docid/HANSARD-1323879322-155969