Tully Sugar case study

'Before the employer consultancy program, I didn't really understand the claim management process and how WorkCover could help our people return to work.'

Tully Sugar Limited operates one of the largest sugar mills in Australia and is based in the regional town of Tully, Far North Queensland. In the past, Tully Sugar's premium has been greatly affected by claims against its policy.

Through our employer consultancy program, Christine Kirk, Manager at our Cairns Customer Service Centre has been able to work with Barry Dun, Development Manager Tully Sugar, to help them introduce processes in reporting and investigating injuries, rehabilitation management, and working relationships with local medical providers. They often discuss best practice in recruitment procedures and how to minimise common law claims.

'Christine was great—we took her on a tour of the mill site, so she could understand the different jobs at the mill, and assist in developing options for suitable duties plans. She encouraged us to discuss ideas for improving our processes, so we could work together to achieve better outcomes for the mill and our workers. '

Today, the relationship between WorkCover Queensland and Tully Sugar is like a partnership—both parties are open about their concerns and information is shared. Christine believes 'this type of relationship means we can work together to maintain the management of workplace injuries and provide added value for their premium.' In the last three years, Tully Sugar's premium rate has slowly decreased and is now well below the industry rate.