The Independent Review Office has released its 2022/2023 Annual Report.
This past financial year saw strong demand for IRO complaint services, with more than 7600 injured worker complaints to our Solutions Group. We also dealt with more than 890 complaints by persons injured in motor accidents, a new role we started in March 2021.
We delivered on our promise of a fast service, with 90 per cent of complaints finalised within 15 calendar days of receipt. And we were effective, with 80 per cent of workers compensation complaints solved by insurers taking action.
Our ILARS function also saw a strong need in 2022/2023 with more than 22,000 applications for grants of funding. For completed grants where there was a final outcome (more than 9800 matters), the worker improved their position in 94 per cent of matters, demonstrating the importance of independent legal assistance for workers to have their claims properly investigated and professionally represented.
2022/2023 also saw the continuation of Regional Seminars, held across six regional areas. Our Sydney Seminar, Current and Upcoming issues in the Personal Injury Scheme, was attended by almost 285 people in person and 359 people online.