The whole LSA Executive Team recently travelled to Hobart to attend the 2023 Actuaries Institute Injury and Disability Schemes Seminar (IDSS). This year the IDSS focused on a whole person approach to injury and disability to improve individual outcomes whilst ensuring system sustainability.
Rick Howe, Chief Executive, joined a panel with representatives from iCare (NSW) and the NDIS to present a Scheme update and address key developments and challenges common to all Schemes. Rick Howe also joined Boris Petrovic, Director, Corporate and the LSA’s actuary Finity, to reflect on seven years of full adoption of National Injury Insurance Schemes (NIIS) across all Australian jurisdictions. They shared their insights into the outcomes for people very seriously injured in motor vehicle accidents to address the question, 'is the NIIS working?'
Kylie Smith, Director, Services, also in conjunction with Finity, illustrated the current challenging landscape for supported accommodation in Australia, that is accessible accommodation for individuals who require home modifications to live independently. They discussed the impact of current accommodation offerings on participant outcomes and proposed changes that could deliver better participant outcomes as well as financial sustainability for schemes.
Finally, Gemma Cooper, Director, People & Partnerships, discussed the challenges facing the care and support workforce including workforce shortages, competitive market dynamics and poorer physical and mental health since the COVID-19 pandemic. She outlined how the LSA is developing a capable, driven, innovative and committed workforce that ultimately provides better outcomes for participants.
The seminar was a valuable opportunity for insurers, researchers, injury and disability specialists, and service providers to come together, share insights and discuss challenges to help all achieve better outcomes.
