PTSD presumption for DFES communications systems officers – effective 27 July 2023

Recent amendments to the Workers’ Compensation and Injury Management Regulations 1982 (the Regulations) established a rebuttable presumption of work-related injury for post-traumatic stress disorder contracted by DFES communications systems officers.

The amendments place DFES communications systems officers on the same footing as ambulance workers and firefighters, already covered by the PTSD presumption in Regulations.

The definition of ‘firefighter’ currently in Regulations has also been amended in order to better describe firefighters in line with their industrial instrument so it is clear as to whom the presumption applies.

The amendment regulations come into effect on 27 July 2023 and apply from 6 May 2023. This ensures DFES communications systems officers are able to access the presumption from the same date as firefighters.

Visit the Recent legislative amendments page for a fact sheet about the PTSD presumption.