Fund 1 Employer Information. Fund 1 Employer Information

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1 Fund 1 Employer Information Fund 1 Employer Information Updated May 2015

2 Incolink was established in 1988 as the industry redundancy scheme to support workers between jobs. As well as managing funds for workers, Incolink supports the Industry with a range of benefits and services. Phone: (03) Website: Address: 1 Pelham Street, Carlton VIC 3053 IMPORTANT Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the guide at the time of publishing, it does not purport to contain all the information that may be relevant to the matters contained in it, and is provided as a matter of interest only. No liability attaches to Incolink in relation to any statement made, expressly or implied in this brochure. All statutory or implied conditions and warranties are excluded to the extent permitted by law. A reader of this brochure should not rely on its contents but should obtain further information in relation to any product or services provided. COPYRIGHT This work is copyright and apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act, no part may be reproduced by any process without prior permission from Incolink. This Booklet is designed to provide information to the most common questions but is not a substitute for the Trust Deeds which govern the Incolink Redundancy Funds. The information contained herein is correct as of April Information provided is of a general nature, and Incolink recommends seeking your own independent advice.

3 Redundancy Scheme Employer Information Getting Set Up with Incolink 6 EmployerLink 7 Payment Methods 8 Payment Due Date 9 Tax Invoices 10 Manage your company details 11 Managing Workers 12 Registering Workers 12 5 Contents Adding Workers 12 Terminating Workers 13 Change Workers Employment 13 Apprentices 14 Privacy Terms & Conditions 15 EmployerLink FAQs 17 Worker Accounts 19 Claims 20 Severance Account 20 Claiming Initial Benefit 20 Claiming the Balance of Funds 21 Genuine Redundancy Claims 22 Apprentice Claims 23 Tax Rates 24 Helpful Information 26 ComplianceLink 28 Employer Information This brochure is designed to provide answers to the most common questions but is not a substitute for the Trust Deed which governs the Funds. The information contained herein is correct as of July

4 Incolink Building & Construction Industry Accident & Illness Benefits Program Personal Accident Leisure Time Insurance Benefits Program Income Protection & Trauma (IPT) Insurance Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme 35 Agreement to Join and Participate in the PSL Scheme 37 Contributions to Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme 37 Workers Returning to their Previous Employer 38 Claiming Portable Sick Leave 39 Work Injury Management Service Contents Industry Training Levy 42 Incolink Member Service Department 43 Job Placement Services 43 Support for Building & Construction Workers 44 Financial Rights Counselling Support Program 44 Personal Counselling 44 Critical Incident Report 44 Alcohol & Drug Program 44 Grief Counselling 45 Apprentice Support Workers 45 Life Care 45 Supporting Members 46

5 Redundancy Scheme Employer Information The Trust Incolink is the trading name of the Redundancy Payment Central Fund Ltd, a company incorporated in Victoria. The Company acts as the Trustee of the Trust which governs the Redundancy Payment Approved Worker Entitlement Fund No. 1, applicable to employers and their workers within the commercial construction sector. Parties to the Deed of Trust are Incolink, Master Builders Association of Victoria (MBAV), Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU), and the Communications, Electrical, Plumbing Union (CEPU). Workers are entitled to redundancy payments in accordance with: The terms of their Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) The Contract of Employment A copy of the full Trust document is available on request. 5 Redundancy Scheme Employer Information

6 Getting Set Up Agreement to Join & Contribute to the Fund Employers agree to join and contribute to Incolink in accordance with the Building Industry Redundancy Pay Scheme through: Application for Membership and Deed of Adherence (this is to be completed online at incolink.org.au/employerlink). Contact Incolink for further information. Industrial Instrument If you are currently working under an Industrial Instrument (EBA) other than the main industry instruments (eg CFMEU or CEPU EBA) you will need to provide us with a copy of this Agreement. Processing Applications for Membership Subject to all applications for membership being completed correctly and all relevant documentation being supplied, it takes approximately two working days for Incolink to approve and process an application. Employers will receive a confirmation of approval and their Incolink Employer Member Number via once the registration process is complete. When completing the Application for Membership, you will need to provide company details including nominations a Super User (see page 13) 6 Fund 1 Employer Information

7 EmployerLink EmployerLink is Incolink s easy contribution management system, which is designed to be user friendly, save time and reduce the paperwork associated with managing redundancy contributions, insurance and training levy s. From 1 June 2015 employer members will be able to complete their monthly returns online, using EmployerLink. It is a convenient and easy way to manage your workers and the relevant payments. To access EmployerLink - Employers will be provided with details of how to set up access to EmployerLink prior to 4 May 2015 when registered with Incolink. If you are already a registered employer member please ensure your contact details are correct with Incolink. - EmployerLink is available 24/7 via the Incolink website. Getting Set Up To register for EmployerLink, you must accept the terms and conditions as part of completing the Application for Membership and Deed of Adherence; these are included in the Incolink registration form which is available online. To complete your registration you must print and sign the terms and conditions and return this form to Incolink before your membership will be completed. 7 EmployerLink Call Incolink s Operation Department: (03) or or [email protected] if you have any queries. Call (03)

8 Benefits of using Monthly return processing available 24/7 Reduced paperwork Online worker management o Register o Terminate o Confirm claim information o Provide other information Tax invoices online Automated calculations BPAY and credit card payments available Electronic notifications Online management of your company details Access to online job placement service Access anywhere Friendly and innovative Dedicated Incolink Support Team available Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm. Payment Methods Incolink accepts a number of payment methods for employers making monthly contribution payments for their workers, including; BPay Credit card (VISA / MasterCard)* Cheque^ Employers are required to pay Incolink in accordance with the invoice periods as defined in the Trust Deeds and other agreements governing the funds. *Please be advised, fees associated with making payments via credit card will be advised and paid when payment is authorised. ^Employers who continue to pay via cheque are reminded that cheque payments are subject to bank clearance and may therefore delay the process of your monthly return. 8 Fund 1 Employer Information

9 Payment Due Date Incolink redundancy contributions are due on the last day of the month to which it relates however payments will be accepted until the 14 th of the following month. EmployerLink will automatically calculate your monthly invoice to reflect changes in the workforce. Please remove or adjust for workers who did not work on a commercial or industrial site the entire month. When adding new workers please ensure you provide their full name, address, date of birth, start date and their trade. If a worker has left your employment please update the termination date. Late Payments Payments received after the last day of the month following the month in which they were due will be subject to a 10% Late Payment Fee as prescribed in the Trust Deeds and any subsequent amendments to the Deed. For example: The August invoice is due for payment by 30 th August, however, because we collect payments in arrears we allow you until 14 th September to make payment before taking action. Payments received after 30 th September will incur the Late Payment Fee. 9 EmployerLink Invoice Periods In accordance with the Trust Deed governing the funds, Incolink invoice periods are either four (4) or five (5) weeks dependent upon the number of weeks (Monday to Friday) that fall in the invoice period (month). Returns will not be able to be processed if they are not calculated according to Incolink invoice periods.

10 Tax Invoices Incolink will send you an notification when your invoice is available. To process your invoices, log into your EmployerLink account and click on Invoices. This page displays provisional and paid invoices. If the invoice is finalised it will display accordingly in the status column. Where more than once invoice is provisional you must finalise the oldest invoice first. To process an invoice, click on the invoice number. Please note that GST, if applicable, is payable on invoices. You will receive a provisional invoice where you will be able make the necessary amendments and return to Incolink with your payment. A Tax Invoice receipt will be issued to you once the provisional invoice and payment have been processed. 10 Fund 1 Employer Information

11 Manage your company details Simply log into your EmployerLink account, click Company Details and click Update. PLEASE NOTE: only Super Users can edit all company details. Super Users Each employer member is required to nominate a Super User of EmployerLink. The Super User must be an authorised officer for your company as the super user will be able to set up and manage Authorised Users for their company. Further they are able to manage user contacts, including logins and password. The Super Users will be able to update your company details such as address, telephone numbers and telephone security pin. A Super User can manage their company s EmployerLink Authorised User permissions; thorough login in and updating User details. 11 Manage your company details Authorised Users Authorised Users are able to access EmployerLink and to complete monthly returns and manage workers on behalf of the company. The Super User must add new Authorised Users contact information by following the steps to update Company details. This is done by following the New Iink and entering the Authorised Users personal details, and adjusting the EmployerLink Permissions details, it is important to ensure all mandatory fields are complete, and then click save.

12 Managing Workers EmployerLink makes it easier to manage your workers to ensure accurate monthly returns are calculated. Registering Workers To register workers with Incolink, log into your EmployerLink account and click on Manage Workers menu option then My Worker is not currently registered with Incolink. Enter the workers personal and employment details, ensuring all mandatory fields are completed, and then click Save. When registering new workers you will need to supply the following details: - Full Name - Current residential address - Date of Birth - Mobile Phone - Incolink Number (If previously registered with Incolink) Adding Workers - Commencement date - Trade / job title - address - Employment type ie; permanent / casual If available, we also request that you provide us with the worker s contact details such as: Mobile or home telephone; address To add a worker to your Incolink account, log into your EmployerLink account, click on Manage Workers then New Worker. Enter the workers Incolink Member Number, date of birth and surname then click Search. If successful, a message will appear, click Ok. Who is an Eligible Worker? Eligible workers are those who are currently working on a commercial building or construction site in Victoria, where an Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) applies. Construction work includes maintenance in accordance with the definition contained in the relevant awards. 12 Fund 1 Employer Information

13 If a worker is not already registered as an Incolink worker member, upon receiving your list of names we will then register the worker. We will issue them an Incolink Member Number, and post their Membership Card to their home address. When the worker receives their card it is important that they activate it by going online to activate and confirming some personal details. By activating their card, the worker will be issued with a login and password to access their Incolink account online using WorkerLink. Terminating Workers To terminate workers no longer working for you on Incolink s system, log into your EmployerLink account and click Manage workers. A list of workers registered as working for you will appear including the workers Incolink Member Number, full name, address, employment type and start date with company. Click on the Incolink Member Number of the worker you would like to terminate and then click Terminate worker. You are then required to provide: - Workers end date or termination date - Select a termination reason and from the drop down box. I.e. genuine redundancy. - Unused sick leave days, this only applies of you contribute PSL for your worker. Change Workers Employment Details To change a workers employment details, log into your EmployerLink account and click Manage workers. Similar to terminating a worker, click on the Incolink Member Number of the worker you would like to change the employment details of. Click on Change Employment Details; please be aware that changes to a worker s employment type will update all invoices which have not been finalised. From here you can change the employment type, start date, trade of work and if the worker goes on WorkerCover you can provide the WorkCover start date. Once completed click Save. 13 Managing Workers

14 Apprentices To register apprentices it is similar to when you set up a worker with Incolink, log into your EmployerLink account. Click on Manage Workers menu option then My Worker is not currently registered with Incolink. Enter the workers personal and employment details, ensuring all mandatory fields are completed, and then click Save. When registering new apprentices you will need to supply the following details: - Full Name - Current address - Date of Birth - Mobile Phone - Incolink Number (If previously registered with Incolink) In addition for apprentices please supply: - Start date of their apprenticeship - Apprentice trade - Commencement date - Trade / job title - address Apprentices wil be included on your monthly invoice as they receive apprentice days so you need to nominate the number of days they have worked on a commercial construction site during the month. In addition if the apprentice works under an EBA you will need to pay PSL and IPT payments as required. When adding new apprentices please ensure you only register them with Incolink when they start work on a commercial or industrial site and provide the date they commenced their apprenticeship. This may differ from the date they commenced employment with you, if they started their apprenticeship with another employer. Please include the year of indenture and their trade on the invoice under the column Days Worked this Month the number of days the apprentice worked on a commercial or industrial site (Monday to Friday only). This includes days on leave, days on worker s compensation, days spent attending school, rostered days off and public holidays. If an apprentice has completed their apprenticeship, please provide the completion date in writing on the invoice or on company letterhead. 14 Fund 1 Employer Information

15 Privacy Terms & Conditions Privacy Redundancy Payment Central Fund Ltd (ACN ) (Incolink) is required to comply with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Act). Incolink work in line with a Privacy policy which describes how we manage personal information (which may include sensitive information) that we hold about you and your workers. The Act defines personal information to mean information or an opinion about an identified individual (or an individual who is reasonably identifiable), whether true or not, and whether recorded in a material form or not. Sensitive information includes, but is not limited to, details of an individual s religious beliefs, membership of a trade union and health information. A full copy of the Privacy Policy is available on our website Privacy Terms & Conditions Website Terms & Conditions These terms and conditions apply to the use of the Incolink website at (Website) provided by Redundancy Payment Central Fund Ltd. (ACN ) trading as Incolink and its associated entities, IPT Agency Co. Ltd (ACN ) and IPT Agency Co. (No. 2) Ltd (ACN ) (we, us or our), and to the entire contents of the Website. Please read them carefully before using the Website. By accessing any part of the Website (other than to read these terms and conditions for the first time), you will be deemed to have accepted these terms and conditions in full, and they will constitute a legally binding contract between us and you. Accordingly, if you do not agree with any part or all of these terms and conditions, do not use the Website.

16 If you are an employer member of Incolink, additional terms and conditions apply to your use of the EmployerLink service on the Website. You can view those terms and conditions by logging in to EmployerLink. A full copy of the website use terms and conditions is available on our website: Website-Terms-And-Conditions.aspx. 16 Fund 1 Employer Information

17 EmployerLink Frequently Asked Questions Q. What is EmployerLink? A. EmployerLink is an online system designed to save time and reduce the paperwork associated with managing employers redundancy contributions, insurance and training levies. Q. Are there any fees or charges for using EmployerLink? A. Incolink provides EmployerLink free of charge to registered Incolink employer members. Q. How do I register to use EmployerLink? A. The Application for Membership can now be completed online via Incolink s website: Q. Why should I use EmployerLink? A. As of June 2015, Incolink s new EmployerLink system provides the processing of Incolink payments online. Payments and lodgement of invoices are made via the system. Live registration and termination of workers online Payments will be made by credit card and BPay Monthly invoice processing reminders will be sent via Online use of Incolink s Employment Placement Service All returns will be solely processed online 17 EmployerLink Frequently Asked Questions Q. How do I obtain a receipt once my payment is made? A. Once payment has been received and processed by Incolink you can log on to EmployerLink and print a tax invoice.

18 Q. When can I use the EmployerLink service? A. The EmployerLink service is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Q. Must I be connected to the Internet to use EmployerLink? A. Yes; EmployerLink runs through the Internet. Q. Do I require an address to use EmployerLink? A. Yes; EmployerLink requires a business-specific address to enable us to communicate with You. You need to provide your address when you complete the Application for Membership. Q. Who do I contact if I have questions or comments regarding the EmployerLink service? A. You can contact the Incolink Operations Department on (03) [email protected]. Q. What happens if I forget my login or password? A. If you have misplaced your login, you will need to contact Incolink during business hours (Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm). If you forget your password, you may retrieve it online by accessing the Forgot your Password page. The password will then be sent to your registered address. 18 Fund 1 Employer Information

19 Worker Accounts Workers are able to select how their redundancy funds are treated. Funds can be held in either: an Incolink Severance Account (default account provided to Incolink worker members), which provides access to funds for workers if their employment is terminated for any reason. Severance termination payments are taxed at the concessional tax rate; or an Incolink Genuine Redundancy Account (GRA) enables workers to claim a genuine redundancy payment if their employment is terminated because their position is made genuinely redundant, at a nil or reduced tax rate, on being made genuinely redundant. 19 Worker Accounts PLEASE NOTE: workers should seek independent advice before selecting a Genuine Redundancy Account. To select a Genuine Redundancy Account, workers will need to complete the Incolink Genuine Redundancy Account Application Form. To obtain a copy of this form visit: or contact Incolink. There will be nil cost for workers to select and transfer their redundancy account balance into an Incolink Genuine Redundancy Account (GRA). Incolink does not charge any fees to workers to claim their funds. For more information on the above account types please visit or contact Incolink (03) PLEASE NOTE: Casual workers, due to the nature of their employment conditions, are not eligible for an Incolink Genuine Redundancy Account (GRA).

20 Claims Severance Account Workers can apply for an initial benefit which increase annually in line with movement in the CPI, when they become unemployed, by completing the Initial Claim Form and forwarding it to Incolink via fax, mail, or delivering it to Incolink s office. Employers will be required to confirm the workers termination by completion of Termination of Worker via EmployerLink. Workers will be able to apply for their Initial Claim via WorkerLink; alternatively the Initial Claim Form can be downloaded from our website. If a worker is still unemployed after 4 weeks, they are then eligible to claim the balance of funds from their account. The Balance of Funds Claim form can be downloaded from our website. Claiming Initial Benefit On termination of employment of a worker you are required to specify the end date of the employment and the reason of the termination. If your company is paying PSL for the worker, you will be prompted to specify the number of sick days taken during the worker s employment with you. This is required under the terms of the Portable Sick Leave Trust Deed and is necessary for calculating the worker s PSL entitlements. You must supply this information if you are paying PSL for the worker or you will be unable to finalise the request. Please note: Submitting sick days taken will not be required for casual workers as they are not required to receive PSL. When you terminate an apprentice, details regarding the end of the apprenticeship such as if the apprentice completed their apprenticeship must be provided. 20 Fund 1 Employer Information

21 Claiming the Balance of Funds Eligible workers holding an Incolink Severance Account can withdraw the balance of funds remaining in their account after the Initial Benefit has been paid, provided the worker: Has been unemployed for four (4) weeks and registered with: o Centrelink o Incolink s Member Services Employment Department. o Have not worked in the Industry for 39 weeks; the Statutory Declaration must be competed and executed. PLEASE NOTE: If registered with Centrelink, proof of registration in the form of an official document from Centrelink is required. If the worker is not registered with either organisation, the statutory declaration must be competed and executed. Is retiring from active employment and is over 55 years of age; the Statutory Declaration must be completed and executed. Is unemployed and leaving Australia for more than two years (a certified copy of a current passport and airline ticket must be provided as proof); the Statutory Declaration must be completed and executed. To make a claim on the remaining balance of funds workers need to complete and submit the Redundancy 21 Benefits Claim Form. If the statutory declaration is completed, this claim form cannot be faxed or ed and the original document must be posted or brought into the Incolink office. Claims Contact Incolink for further information about redundancy claims or download forms from:

22 Genuine Redundancy Claims Workers holding an Incolink Genuine Redundancy Account (GRA) will be able to claim a genuine redundancy payment if their employment is terminated because their position is no longer needed. A workers entire balance will be paid when a claim is made. Other situations where payments from an Incolink Genuine Redundancy Account may be claimed include: Termination of Employment due to Permanent Disability or Death. Retirement Termination for any reason, on or after 65 years of age. (Taxed at the concessional rate plus Medicare Levy.) Reaching age 66. (Taxed at the top marginal tax rate plus the Medicare Levy.) The employer is required to confirm the workers redundancy is a genuine redundancy by nominating the reason for termination as a genuine redundancy via EmployerLink. Tax free amounts will be calculated on the workers completed years of employment using the ATO s genuine redundancy Tax rules. ATO s Genuine Redundancy Tax rules. Workers must submit their Genuine Redundancy Claim to Incolink within 30 days of being made genuinely redundant. If Incolink receive the completed claim form by 10am, the claim will be processed the same day: If we are provided with bank details, the funds will be directly transferred on the same day and the worker will have cleared funds in their account the following day, or A cheque will be posted to the worker the same day. The GRA Claim Form can also be downloaded from our website. Need Support? Contact Incolink Visit Call Incolink s Operation Department: (03) Regional Areas: [email protected] 22 Fund 1 Employer Information

23 Apprentice Claims During an apprenticeship, if an apprentice is made redundant due to lack of work, they may be eligible to make a claim. Under the Incolink Trust Deeds, an apprentice can claim their apprenticeship days as redundancy in the following situations if they become unemployed: An apprentice completes their apprenticeship, and then completes 52 weeks within the commercial building industry, and their employer/s has paid 52 weeks redundancy contributions into Incolink during the period. An apprentice who has not yet finished their apprenticeship is laid off due to a shortage of work, and there is no arrangement with their employer to re-employ them. An apprentice completes their apprenticeship, and is then laid off due to shortage of work within the next 52 weeks, and there is no arrangement with the employer to re-employ them. 23 Claims Call (03)

24 Tax Rates Incolink has an Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Tax Ruling that allows us to provide employment termination payments to workers in the building and construction industry. All claims are processed in accordance with ATO regulations. If a worker pays more tax than required they may be eligible to claim a refund when completing their annual tax return. When processing claims, if there is any taxable portion of a worker s claim, Incolink will deduct tax at the current rate determined by the ATO. It is not against the law for workers not to provide Incolink with their Tax File Number (TFN), however workers who do not provide their TFN will have tax deducted at the maximum marginal tax rate. Severance Accounts Aged under 55 years* Aged over 55 years* Any Age Any Age Age Time Maximum Tax Rate Claim made within 12 months of termination Claim made within 12 months of termination Claims made more than 12 months after termination If no Tax File Number (TFN) is provided 32% 17% 49% 49% *move up by one year up to age of 60 for every birth year after 1/7/1960 up to 30/6/1964. (See Preservation Age table on page 15) *rate correct as of 1 January Fund 1 Employer Information

25 Genuine Redundancy Accounts (GRA) Tax Treatment of Payments 2014/2015 Reason for Payment Genuine Redundancy Before Preservation Age* Genuine Redundancy After Preservation Age* and Before Age 65 Genuine Redundancy After Age 65 Retirement After Age 65 Retirement Before Age 65 Death Disability up to Age 65 and Before Preservation Age* Disability up to Age 65 and After Preservation Age* Genuine Redundancy Account Tax free up to $9,514 plus $4,758 pa. Excess up to cap of $185K at 30% plus the Medicare levy. Tax free up to $9,514 plus $4,758 pa. Excess up to cap of $185K at 15% plus the Medicare levy. 15% tax up to $185K cap amount plus the Medicare levy. 15% tax up to $185K cap amount plus the Medicare levy. N/A no payment available from GRA Tax free up to $185K cap if payment is made to a dependant. Otherwise 30% tax plus the Medicare levy up to $185K cap amount. Tax free up to invalidity component. Excess up to cap of $185K at 30% plus the Medicare levy. Tax free up to invalidity component. Excess up to cap of $185K at 15% plus the Medicare levy. 25 Tax Rates Tax Free amount is for 2014/2015, the amount shown is indexed on the 1 st of July each year. The tax free amount does not apply to all situations. Please refer to the ATO for the most recent Medicare levy. Preservation Age* A person s preservation age depends on their date of birth, as set out in the following table: Date of Birth Preservation Age Before 1 July July 1960 to 30 June July 1961 to 30 June July 1962 to 30 June July 1963 to 30 June From 1 July

26 Helpful Information Where Redundancy Contributions are Required: First & Final Week of Employment If a worker commences with an employer Tuesday to Friday inclusive, they shall be entitled to a full week s contribution. If they cease employment Monday to Thursday inclusive, no contribution is payable for that week. Hence, Friday is the key day in the first and final week of employment. Normal Week A full weekly contribution shall be paid for any time a worker performs work on a commercial or industrial construction site during that week. Annual Leave Contributions are still payable while your workers are on paid Annual Leave. Sick Leave Contributions are still payable while your workers are on paid Sick Leave. Long Service Leave While your workers are on Long Service Leave, you are still required to make contributions on their behalf even though they are being paid by the Construction Industry Long Service Leave Board. Workers Compensation Where a worker was off work and on workers compensation before 30 th September 1989, contributions are payable for the first 26 th weeks (six months). Where a worker has been off work on workers compensation from 1 st October 1989, all contributions are payable for the first 52 weeks (12 months). Once the 52 weeks have passed you must continue to pay IPT (if applicable) while the worker remains in your employment. 26 Fund 1 Employer Information

27 Where Redundancy Contributions are not Required: Unpaid Leave Where a worker is on unpaid leave or absent without pay for a full week, no contribution is payable for that week, however the IPT (if applicable) must be paid. TAC Where a worker is on Transport Accident Commission (TAC) claim, redundancy contributions are not payable, however the IPT (if applicable) must be paid. 27 Helpful Information

28 ComplianceLink ComplianceLink is quicker and more accessible for union delegates. The system allows registered delegates to complete compliance checks online, anywhere and 24/7. The online ComplianceLink system is easy and allows live compliance checking for both, employers and individual workers. ComplianceLink enables union delegates to: Access to up to date Incolink compliance information 24/7 o No longer will you need to call Incolink, fax or a hard copy compliance form. Search by employer or individual worker. Number of weeks paid is displayed. Rate card for employer is displayed. Number of weeks paid for each contribution is shown. Printable reports. For more information visit: 28 Fund 1 Employer Information

29 Incolink Building & Construction Industry Accident & Illness Benefits Program Incolink provides building and construction workers redundancy benefits along with an extensive list of insurance benefits. Cover is only available for those workers where the employer continues to pay redundancy contributions. Insurance cover will only be provided where the employer continues to pay the agreed contribution payments. To ensure workers are covered by Incolink s insurance benefits, they are required to ensure their employer pays the agreed contribution payment to Incolink on time each month. Workers who receive contribution payments to Incolink s redundancy scheme will be eligible for insurance cover under Incolink s Personal Accident Leisure Time Insurance Scheme. Workers who receive Income Protection and Trauma (IPT) contribution payments to Incolink will be eligible for Incolink s Income Protection and Trauma benefits program. The Incolink Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme is exclusive to Incolink. Workers will be eligible for this Scheme where the employer is required to make contributions under an Industrial Instrument (EBA), and is making PSL contribution payments to Incolink on their behalf. 29 Incolink Building and Construction Industry Accident and Illness Benefits Program Accident and Illness Benefits Program Please contact Incolink to obtain a copy of the Building and Construction Accident and Illness Benefits Program brochure which outlines the benefits. Building & Construction Industry Accident and Illness Benefits Program This brochure has been produced to assist workers in understanding the benefits that apply under the various insurance covers administered by Incolink and the circumstances under which these benefits may be claimed. John Glasson Chief Executive Officer Incolink Call (03)

30 PLEASE NOTE: Incolink is the administrator of the Accident and Illness Benefits Program. The insurance policy is arranged by Windsor Management Insurance Brokers and distributed by Incolink. Incolink does not manage or process claims. All claims are managed by Total Claims Solutions, who have been appointed as claims managers on behalf of QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited. Claim forms are available at or by contacting Total Claims Solutions on (03) Incolink does not give any advice in relation the insurance policy. Conditions and exclusions apply to all the covers mentioned within this brochure. For additional information, contact Incolink on (03) for a copy of the Incolink Accident and Illness Benefits Program brochure. 30 Fund 1 Employer Information

31 Personal Accident Leisure Time Insurance Benefits Program Redundancy contributions made to Incolink include insurance cover for workers under the Incolink Personal Accident Leisure Time Insurance Benefits Program. Where a worker receives redundancy contribution payments to Incolink, they will receive insurance cover for: Personal Accident Insurance (Member only)* Incolink offers benefits to workers who have suffered an accident, resulting in an injury outside working hours that prevents a worker from working. Benefits include a weekly benefit for up to three years (where aged over 65 the benefit periods is limited to two years), lump sum benefits for example, death, paraplegia, loss of limbs and includes a broken bones benefit where the injury has resulted in a break or fracture of a bone. Where a lump sum death benefit has been paid under this section, for a worker with dependants, as defined, there is a reimbursement for child care expenses. *Conditions and exclusions apply. Journey Cover (Member only)* Incolink offers benefits to workers who have suffered an accident resulting in an injury whilst in direct travel to and from work which does not involve a motor vehicle. Benefits include a weekly benefit for up to three years (where aged over 65 the benefit periods is limited to two years), lump sum benefits for example, death, paraplegia, loss of limbs. Where a lump sum, death benefit has been paid under this section, for a worker with dependants, as defined, there is a reimbursement for child care expenses. *Conditions and exclusions apply. Funeral Cover (Member only)* Incolink provides a lump sum benefit payable to the beneficiary or funeral parlor when a worker dies. *Conditions and exclusions apply. 31 Personal Accident Leisure Time Insurance Benefits Program

32 Dental Incolink provides cover to workers, and extends to their dependants, for accidental damage to sound and healthy teeth which occurs outside working hours. Emergency Transport Incolink provides cover to workers, and extends to their dependants, for ambulance usage anywhere in Australia, which is not work related and not covered under any statutory scheme. Accident and Illness Benefits Program Building & Construction Industry Accident and Illness Benefits Program This brochure has been produced to assist workers in understanding the benefits that apply under the various insurance covers administered by Incolink and the circumstances under which these benefits may be claimed. PLEASE NOTE: Conditions and exclusions apply to all the covers mentioned above. For additional information contact Incolink for a copy of the Accident and Illness Benefits Program Brochure. John Glasson Chief Executive Officer Incolink 32 Fund 1 Employer Information

33 Income Protection & Trauma (IPT) Insurance Leisure Time Illness/WorkCover Top-Up/TAC Top-Up & Workplace Death & Capital Benefits (IPT)* The standard IPT contribution rate is currently $17.05 per week (inc GST). Some industrial instruments (EBAs) allow for employers to pay a higher premium and therefore provide their workers with higher benefits. The premiums are payable every week that the worker is employed by your company (i.e. 100% of the time). IPT cannot be pro-rated, although if a worker is terminated, IPT is only payable for the weeks up until the time of termination. Terms and conditions do apply. In addition to providing workers with redundancy benefits, Incolink provides workers with Income Protection and Trauma (IPT) insurance covers. To be included as member of the Incolink IPT scheme, employers must be paying the IPT contribution to Incolink, which pays the premium on the insurance policy. This insurance has been established to provide benefits for those workers who have Income Protection & Trauma (IPT) Insurance premiums contributions paid on their behalf and provides Leisure Time Illness, WorkCover Top-Up, TAC Top-Up and Workplace Death and Capital Benefits. To be included as member of the Incolink IPT scheme, employers must be paying the IPT contribution to Incolink which pays the premium on the Insurance policy which provides the various IPT benefits to workers. 33 Income Protection & Trauma (IPT) Insurance Benefits include: Weekly benefits for up to three years for a worker suffering from an illness, (limited to two (2) years ages over 65). Top-up benefits for workers suffering an injury whilst in direct travel to and from work, which is covered by any statutory transport accident scheme. Call (03)

34 Top-up benefits from the 53rd week of disablement for workplace accidents, whilst a worker is in receipt of WorkCover payments. Death and capital benefits for workplace accidents only. Where a lump sum, death benefit has been paid under this section, for a worker with dependants, as defined, there is a reimbursement for child care expenses. *Conditions and exclusions apply. IPT provides a range of insurance covers to workers where a worker suffers an illness, a workplace accident or a motor vehicle accident whilst in direct travel to and from work. Cover includes: Weekly benefits for up to three years for a worker suffering from an illness (two years where aged 65 and over). Top-up Benefits for workers suffering an injury whilst in direct travel to and from work, which is covered by any statutory transport accident scheme. Top-up Benefits from the 53 rd week of disablement for workplace accidents, whilst a worker is in receipt of WorkCover payments. Death and Trauma benefits for workplace accidents only. Where a lump sum, death benefit has been paid under this section, for a worker with dependants, as defined, there is a reimbursement for child care expenses. Conditions and Exclusions Apply. PLEASE NOTE: IPT insurance cover ceases when the worker is terminated and IPT contribution payments are not longer made to Incolink. IPT cover cannot be extended between jobs. 34 Fund 1 Employer Information

35 Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme The Construction Industry Portable Sick Leave (PSL) scheme was developed through the parties to the Victorian Building Industry Agreement (VBIA). Incolink, at the request of the parties, was established and in addition to providing workers with redundancy benefits, Incolink provides an EXCLUSIVE PSL Scheme to building and construction workers. A weekly PSL contribution is payable for all workers who are receiving weekly Redundancy contribution payments to cover their percentage of unused sick leave benefits on termination. $1.54 per week paid into Incolink s PSL program provides workers with the ability to hold on to sick days they would normally lose when changing, leaving or are terminated by their employer. Employer PSL contributions made to Incolink will provide eligible workers access to the only industry PSL scheme. At all times employers must continue to meet all award sick leave entitlements. 35 Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme

36 Incolink Portable Sick Leave Scheme not available through any other Fund The maximum days that can be held How many days can a be accrued per year When a worker can claim When cover ceases Construction Industry Portable Sick Leave Scheme form completion required by the employer providing Who is not eligible for PSL PSL will ensure the worker is covered for sick leave to a maximum of 100 days, despite the worker changing employers. Initially, by access to sick leave credits held with the current employer, then by access to Incolink s PSL. Workers can accrue sick leave at the rate of 10 days per year up to a maximum of 100 days. Sick leave benefits are payable while a worker suffers disablement as a result of an injury or illness and must first exhaust all available accrued sick leave entitlements with their current employer and must remain employed. The Incolink PSL lets workers accrue sick leave and take it with them when they change jobs PLEASE NOTE: If workers do not receive PSL contributions for more than 2 years their PSL days balance will return to zero. Workers commencement and termination dates. The number of sick leave days actually taken by the worker. The reason for the termination. Casual workers are not eligible for the PSL Scheme. PLEASE NOTE: If a worker has been terminated by an employer and is re-employed by the same employer within six (6) months, the sick days provided to Incolink get reversed and the employer takes responsibility for the payment of them. Conditions and exclusions apply to all the covers mentioned above. For additional information, contact Incolink for a copy of the Incolink Accident and Illness Benefits Program Brochure. 36 Fund 1 Employer Information

37 Agreement to Join and Participate in the PSL Scheme If you have an Industrial Instrument (EBA) that requires you to participate in the PSL Scheme you are able to join the Scheme by completing the necessary Application and Deed of Adherence. To be eligible, employers must also be participating employers in Incolink Redundancy Payment Approved Worker Entitlement Fund No. 1. Contributions to Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme Once you are participating, Incolink will presume all workers are eligible workers, in respect to PSL; therefore you will be required to make contributions to the PSL Scheme. Upon receipt of Incolink s monthly invoices, Redundancy and PSL contributions should be made by you, the employer, on a monthly basis. PSL is payable for a worker who is working on a commercial or industrial site and for whom you are contributing redundancy. PSL is payable for an apprentice who is working on a commercial or industrial site and for whom you are providing Incolink with their days worked. 37 Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme PSL is not payable when an worker or apprentice is working on a domestic or non commercial/industrial site. Casual workers are not entitled to PSL and are not covered under this scheme.

38 Workers Returning to their Previous Employer Where an employer contributes to the PSL Scheme on behalf of their worker, who is then terminated, the worker s days are added to the Scheme. If within six (6) months of the date they left, they then return to work for the same employer, the days are reversed from the Scheme and the employer again assumes liability for those days. If a worker leaves the employer of their own accord and returns, the days remain with the Scheme. Example: The following illustrates how the calculation would be made for the PSL entitlements of John Smith, a building worker who has been in the industry for four years. In that four years he would have a potential PSL benefit of 40 days. (10 days x four years) LESS any Sick Leave taken. John Smith was employed by: (All employers are participating members of Incolink Fund No.1 and the PSL Scheme). Company A John accumulated 10 sick days but only used 2 From 1/5/2008 to Therefore, Incolink took over the administration the 30/4/2009 of the remaining 8 days. Company B John accumulated 20 sick days, of which he took 4, leaving a total of 16 days. From 1/5/2009 to the 30/4/2011 Therefore 16 days were to be taken over by Incolink, who is now holding 24 days. Company C John accumulated 10 days, however, From 1/5/2011 these are held by Company C until he is and is still a terminated. current worker as Incolink is holding a balance of 24 days of 30/4/2012 for John Smith. John then gets sick and needs to take 20 days off on sick leave. John would be entitled to: 1. Exhaust the 10 days he has accumulated with his Company C (his current employer). 2. Then claim 10 days from his Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Balance. 3. Leaving a balance of sick leave days in his Portable Sick Leave (PSL) account of 14 days. If a period exist where no PSL contributions have been made for the worker, this will affect the workers entitlements under the scheme. 38 Fund 1 Employer Information

39 Claiming Portable Sick Leave All normal Award Sick Leave entitlements owing to a worker will continue to be paid by the employer. Payments for Sick Leave in excess of Award entitlements can only be accessed through the Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme. All payments will be made by the Scheme directly to workers subject to: The employer providing approval and relevant documentation (ie a copy of the doctor s certificate) pertaining to the claim to the PSL Scheme. The PSL Scheme determining a worker s entitlement to Sick Leave under the Scheme. A worker must first exhaust all their eligible sick days with their current employer before they are able to claim the days held in the PSL Scheme. To access to the PSL Scheme, it is the worker s responsibility to claim sick leave credits. Workers need to complete a claim form and the relevant section needs to be completed by their employer. Claim forms are available from Incolink or download from our website: Once Total Claims Solutions Pty Ltd receives a fully completed claim form, the claim will be assessed. Payments can be paid directly into the worker s bank account via EFT or a cheque posted. All payments are subject to audit at the discretion of Total Claims Solutions. 39 Portable Sick Leave Scheme (PSL) Scheme (PSL) Commencement Date of Benefits The date from which benefits under the PSL can accrue for an eligible worker will be either: The date of commencement with their employer who was a participating employer at the commencement of the PSL, ie: 1 st April 1997, or For a person not employed, the date of commencement of the worker with a participating employer after 1 st April Call (03)

40 How does the Portable Sick Leave (PSL) Scheme Work? Incolink has purchased an Insurance Policy to cover any unused sick leave a worker has remaining at the time of termination of employment and where the employer member is paying the PSL contribution to Incolink. Employer Members are responsible for any personal sick leave a worker may have accrued while working under a Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) system, but only to those benefits which relate to personal injury/illness leave of the worker. On termination of employment, an employer is required to send to Incolink the number of sick leave credits a worker has taken. It is important that the employer completes the Construction Industry Portable Sick Leave Scheme Form at the time of a workers termination. Incolink cannot take over any unused sick leave for any period where an employer has not paid and is not paying the PSL contributions on behalf of a worker. PLEASE NOTE: Days are only returned to the employer if the worker is terminated. This does not apply if the worker resigns. For further information contact: Total Claims Solutions: Level Rathdowne Street Carlton VIC 3053 Telephone: (03) or Russell Wilson Industry Liaison Officer Mobile: [email protected] 40 Fund 1 Employer Information

41 Work Injury Management Service Incolink has endorsed Total Claims Solutions to provide our employer members with an effective Work Injury Management service. Total Claims Solutions are the leading specialist case management organisation that s been managing the Incolink Accident and Illness Benefits program for more than 19 years. Rehabilitation & Return to Work Coordinators Total Claims Solutions Work Injury Management Service offers fully trained and highly experienced Injury Management Coordinators to support the injured worker and employer through the entire Workers Compensation process. They have a firm understanding of Workers Compensation and Rehabilitation & Return-to-Work matters, as well as specific skills to assist both employers and employees when a work injury occurs. 41 Portable Work Injury Sick Management Leave Scheme Service (PSL) The Benefits to You Immediate access to experienced Injury Management Coordinators. Reduced downtime and increased productivity. Protection of employers and employees best interests. A WorkCover liaison to ensure all requirements are managed effectively, and Positive workplace culture. For more information call Total Claims Solutions on (03) or visit: Work Injury Management Advisory Service Hotline. The hotline is available to all Incolink members for advice regarding workplace injuries. Call , free of charge for the first 20mins*. For more information visit

42 Industry Training Levy Employers who are party to an industrial instrument which reflects the terms of the template CFMEU, CEPU or MPAV certified agreement are required to contribute to the Co-managed Training Levy. The CTP will be included in your monthly invoice. The Levy commenced on 1 st January 2006 for all employers registered with the CFMEU (Construction and General Division) and on 1 st March 2006 for the employers registered with the CEPU (Plumbing Division). The CTP Levy is collected by Incolink on behalf of the Trust known as the Victorian Building and Construction Industry Training Fund (VBCITF). The Levy will be included in Incolink s monthly invoices. If you have signed an EBA with the CFMEU or the CEPU (Plumbing Division) you are obligated to pay the CTP as required under the terms of the EBA. Contact Incolink for more information on the Training Levy or to find out what amount you are required to pay. For further information on training programs contact your employer association or industry union office for more information. 42 Fund 1 Employer Information

43 Incolink Member Service Department Job Placement Services Incolink Member Services offers a free service to employers who are looking for workers. Employers who are looking for workers can place a job advertisement free of charge with Incolink using EmployerLink or call (03) to speak directly with our employment advisors. Workers can register as seeking work through WorkerLink or by completing and submitting a Seeking Employment Registration form to Incolink. Worker s qualifications and skills must match the advertised job before they can apply. For further information and advice for employer members wishing to use the Incolink s Job Placement Services through EmployerLink or to register a job, contact our Employment Advisors on (03) To be eligible to access Incolink s Job Placement Service and other Member Services benefits, workers must: Hold an Incolink account and be recently receiving monthly contributions from their employer; or Workers out of work should also register with Incolink s Employment Services to continue to be eligible to receive insurance covers for nine months after termination as detailed in the Accidents and Illness Benefits brochure. 43 Incolink Member Service Department For more information contact: Incolink Member Services Training, Employment & Careers Team 1 Pelham Street Carlton VIC 3053 Telephone: (03) [email protected] Freecall: (Freecall is available from regional areas only, not Melbourne metro or mobiles) Office hours: 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday Website: Call (03)

44 Support for Building & Construction Workers Incolink is committed to looking after the physical health and emotional wellbeing of worker members. We provide access to a range of services which are confidential and at no cost. Please contact Member Services on to access the following services. Financial Rights Counselling & Budget Support Program Incolink provides access to professional, confidential, financial rights counselling and budget support services in relation to all debt issues, at no cost to Incolink members. Personal Counselling Personal issues can affect your ability to work safely and efficiently on site. An Incolink counsellor can help you work through your issues, home or work-related, in confidence and at no cost. Critial Incident Support Counsellors are available throughout Victoria to ensure complete coverage of critical incidents. To assist with post incident effects Incolink offers OH&S and First Aid courses on suicide prevention to the Industry to help reduce the number of people attempting to take their own lives. Incolink has been recognised with a national award for its work in this area. Alcohol & Drug Program Incolink s Drug and Alcohol Support Workers have developed a harm awareness program to help workers and employers deal with the effects of alcohol and drug use. 44 Fund 1 Employer Information

45 Grief Counselling A terminal or life-threatening illness or the loss of a friend, colleague or loved one can be extremely stressful. Incolink provides access to a free grief counselling service to help workers through these difficult times. Apprentice Support Workers Incolink s Apprentice Support Workers provide advice and support to apprentices to ensure they are equipped to deal with workplace pressures. This includes information on issues like drug and alcohol abuse and suicide prevention. Life Care The Life Care service is a project between Incolink and Cbus, aimed at suicide prevention for apprentices and young workers. The program is delivered across Victoria and is designed to teach Life Care skills to apprentices and young workers to assist them to prepare for and cope with the pressures of work and daily life. 45 Incolink Member Service Department Contact Incolink s Member Services to access the above services and to find out more information on: Phone: (03) [email protected]

46 46 Fund 1 Employer Information

47 Supporting Members The role of the Incolink Member Services is continually expanding to meet the needs of members, apprentices and their families, with key services in: 4 Counselling & Support Team Critical Incident Response Personal & Relationship Counselling Grief & Crisis Support Terminal Illness Support 4 Drug & Alcohol Counselling & Support Services Detoxification Program 4 Apprentice Support Apprentice Support Programs Life Care Program Apprentice Support Officers 4 Employment And Training Employment Services Career Advisors Out-Of-Trade Apprentices Support Training Advisors & Support 4 Financial Support Financial Rights Support Debt Crisis & Financial Counselling 4 Careers And Promotions Careers Counsellors & Advice Careers & Promotions Officer Careers Guide Women in Construction - Career Resource 4 Health & Wellbeing Life Care Suicide Prevention Problem Gambling Awareness Staying Connected: Support for Separated Fathers Alcohol & Drug Harm Minimisation Financial Awareness Programs Prostate Cancer Awareness 4 Industry Policies Critical Incident Response Alcohol & Other Drugs Policy Industry Liaison Officer Holistic Approach to Support

48 For Further Information on Incolink s Fund 1: Incolink. Security & Support. 1 Pelham Street, Carlton VIC 3053 Telephone: (03) Facsimile: (03) Freecall: (Available regional areas only, not from mobile phones or the Melbourne metro region) [email protected] BR K533