Workers' Voice Project: Elevating the Lived Experience in Workers' Compensation Reform

Led by A/Prof Jason Thompson in collaboration with Monash University, the Workers' Voice Project seeks to transform Australia’s workers' compensation systems by incorporating the voices of those most affected.

Led by A/Prof Jason Thompson in collaboration with Monash University, the Workers' Voice Project seeks to transform Australia’s workers' compensation systems by incorporating the voices of those most affected. Each year, around 500,000 Australian workers sustain workplace injuries, with many facing not only physical and mental health challenges but also the distress of navigating an often-adversarial compensation system.

Our project utilises computational modelling techniques—system dynamics and agent-based models—to map interactions between injured workers and system participants. The principles of this model and process can also be applied to any other large scale health system.

By incorporating structural and policy changes based on the insights of individuals with lived experience, we aim to create a system that fosters well-being and resilience, rather than exacerbating trauma.

This project demonstrates how a redesigned compensation scheme, informed by multiple stakeholders, can lead to improved outcomes for all. For further information about the project, please contact:

• Assoc. Professor Jason Thompson, ARC Future Fellow: jason.thompson@unimelb.edu.au
• Branislava Godic, Research Assistant: b.godic@unimelb.edu.au