A “zero-tolerance” crackdown on fraudulent workers’ compensation claims recovered more than $250,000 in Queensland in 2024-25, and premiums will be unchanged this year.

The WorkCover board will keep the average rate at $1.343 per $100 of wages after discounts – a total it says is the lowest in any centrally funded state or territory.

The Office of Industrial Relations investigated 164 suspected frauds last year, and it initiated six prosecutions under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act.

Industrial relations minister Jarrod Bleijie says the government is “finally restoring integrity and fairness by taking a zero-tolerance stance against those who cheat the system.

“We are sending a clear message – if you commit fraud, you will be caught, prosecuted and held accountable.

“Queensland businesses and taxpayers deserve better and we remain steadfast in ensuring Queensland’s workers’ compensation scheme is fair, sustainable and protected.”

The state has established a fraud taskforce to co-ordinate strategies and a tip-off form for WorkCover employees to report suspected cases. An internal fraud hub is offering guidance to staff.

The Australian Lawyers Alliance has welcomed the state reforms but says employer non-compliance via unpaid premiums, wage under-reporting and failure to insure must also be addressed.

“This could be a larger drag on scheme sustainability than claimant fraud, and stronger investigation and enforcement here will make a difference,” Queensland president Peter Gibson said.