Access to our Brisbane, Canberra and Melbourne offices is currently restricted. To visit us at these locations, call 1300 366 979 to arrange an appointment.

Learn more about good work
Get the latest national work health and safety news and evidence.

Now available: National Return to Work Survey results

20 May 2022

Injured and unwell workers covered under the Comcare scheme are returning to work at high rates according to data from the 2021 National Return to Work Survey.


This is an Australian-wide survey that aims to monitor and better understand employee experiences of:

  • workers’ compensation
  • return to work (RTW)
  • associated support and rehabilitation.

Telephone-based interviews with 619 workers were conducted between 22 June and 30 September 2021. Individuals were eligible if they had one or more days off work and lodged a claim within the last two years.

The Comcare scheme's headline results:

  • 96% of workers report returning to work at some point since their injury –
    4 points higher than the national average
  • 70% report being back at work for at least three months – up from 62% in 2018
  • 72% of workers report that their service expectations were met or exceeded.

More highlights on topics including early intervention and workplace stigma can be found in our infographic factsheet (PDF, 576.5 KB).

More information about the survey and its results from Safe Work Australia:

Page last reviewed: 20 May 2022

Comcare
GPO Box 9905, Canberra, ACT 2601
1300 366 979 | www.comcare.gov.au

Date printed 20 Apr 2024

https://www.comcare.gov.au/about/news-events/news/now-available-national-return-to-work-survey-results