Employer Return to Work Networks
About the networks
Recognising that the best advice usually comes from those in similar situations, WorkSafe's Employer RTW Networks aim to bring RTW Coordinators and other employer representatives with a RTW responsibility together to share knowledge and experiences, and learn from your peers in the local area.
Network events feature practical presentations from subject matter experts and local employers, panel discussions and an open forum where participants can ask questions and share their experiences through networking activities.
Network locations
Three networks are run in Melbourne's north, south and west. There are also regional networks. In 2009, the Ballarat network will be joined by new regional networks in the Gippsland, Goulburn Valley and Wimmera areas.
| 2009 events calendar |  |
Click here to download print friendly version |
| Click on the dates below to register* |
| network | jan | feb | mar | apr | may | jun | jul | aug | sep | oct | nov | dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| western | 3rd | 30th | 7th | 29th |
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| northern | 26th | 28th | 25th | 26th | ||||||||
| southern | 17th | 16th | 15th | 3rd | ||||||||
| regional | 26th GVN | 14th BN | 25th WN | 30th GVN | 23th BN |
*Network events are open for registration for a 90 day period preceding the event.
| Topics | |
|---|---|
| Communicating with health practitioners to improve RTW outcomes | Learn how you can improve communication with doctors and allied health practitioners to facilitate better RTW outcomes. Hear about initiatives for improving doctor involvement in RTW planning activities. Practical tips and information will be shared by experts in the field who are familiar with the workers' compensation scheme. |
| RTW implications of an ageing workforce |
Do you have mature aged workers with injuries? How can you plan for their safe return to work? Learn about key factors you should consider to successfully return older workers to the workforce while also reducing injuries and timeframes for RTW. |
| Psychological injuries & RTW management | Managing psychological injuries can be complex and challenging. This session will provide you with current information and approaches to effectively manage work related stress and psychological illness. Hear from experts in the field and gain practical advice on how to create successful and sustainable RTW outcomes. |
| Preventing & managing RTW disputes | Learn about strategies aimed at identifying conflict early and how to manage and achieve the resolution of RTW disputes. Obtain a greater knowledge and understanding of the different stages in the reconciliation process. Practical tips will be shared by experts in the compliance and dispute resolution process. |
| Developing a RTW culture (NEW!) | What does a positive RTW culture look like? What role do managers, supervisors and work colleagues play in promoting a RTW culture? Learn the essentials to developing and maintaining a strong safety and RTW culture within your organisation. |
| Striving for RTW best practice (NEW!) | This session will update participants on the current RTW performance of Victorian employers. Best practice initiatives will be examined and case studies reviewed to consider the relevant and practical applications of your RTW obligations. |
| RTW fundamentals during Work Safe Week 2009 | Learn the latest and stay up to date. Aimed at RTW Coordinators or those employers who would like to obtain relevant and practical information relating to best practice RTW. Hear about WorkSafe's current RTW initiatives, ask questions in an open forum, and learn from other local employers regarding their RTW practices and success stories. |
| Regional networks |
|
| Goulburn Valley Network (GVN) | Held in partnership with the Goulburn Valley Safety Group, Shepparton. Topics TBC |
| Gippsland Network (GN) | Held in partnership with the Gippsland OH&S Network Group, Morwell. Dates & topics TBC |
| Ballarat Network (BN) | Held in partnership with the Ballarat Regional Occupational Safety & Health Group, Ballarat. Topics TBC |
| Wimmera Network (WN) | Held in partnership with the Wimmera Safety Group, Horsham. Dates & topics TBC |
Where to get more information
For more information about the RTW networks, RTW issues, or network events, email rtw_networks@worksafe.vic.gov.a
