External
The common law officer in each state office is responsible for the administration and recovery of monies relating to common law (1971 Act only) and third party claims. It is that officer's responsibility to ensure that compensation does not continue beyond the date of settlement.
Until settlement, contact will continually be made with the employee'slegal representative, to update any compensation benefits paid. Recording of compensation costs means that the solicitor is able to demonstrate, usually to a court of law, that the employee's condition has cost a certain amount to date.
This information is used to assist with predicting how much the condition will cost over its life, including a component for non-economic loss
(such as 'pain and suffering'). Any settlement that is awarded will usually provide for past costs (which Comcare recovers) and compensation for future expected costs.