Lara and K & S Freighters Pty Ltd (Compensation)

This matter concerned a dispute between Mr Lara and K & S Freighters Pty Ltd regarding compensation for permanent impairment. The decision was made by Senior Member Egon Fice of the relevant tribunal.

The primary legal issue before the tribunal was whether Mr Lara had suffered a permanent impairment as defined by the *Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 1988* (Cth) (SRC Act), and consequently, his entitlement to compensation under sections 24 and 27 of that Act.

Senior Member Fice found, based on the evidence presented, that Mr Lara had indeed suffered a permanent impairment. The tribunal noted that there was no dispute between the parties concerning the assessment of non-economic loss, and the evidence supported Mr Lara's claim. Accordingly, the tribunal determined that the previous decision made by the Workers Compensation Claims Officer for K & S Freighters was incorrect.

The tribunal set aside the reviewable decision and remitted the matter to the Claims Officer to calculate the compensation payable to Mr Lara under sections 24 and 27 of the SRC Act. The parties were given seven days to make submissions regarding costs.