The statutory guardian of workers compensation in PNG
The Office of Workers Compensation operates under the Workers Compensation Act 1978 within the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
An institution built on fairness and accountability
The Office of Workers Compensation (OWC) is the national authority responsible for administering the workers compensation system of Papua New Guinea. We serve as the bridge between injured workers seeking support and the employers responsible for their wellbeing.
Operating under the Workers Compensation Act 1978, the Office ensures that every eligible worker — and the dependants of workers who lose their lives at work — receives just and timely compensation, while upholding the integrity and sustainability of the scheme.
Our Mission
To deliver fair, efficient and transparent workers compensation services that protect PNG's workforce.
Our Vision
Safe, productive workplaces where every worker is protected and valued.
Authority under the Workers Compensation Act 1978
The Office derives its powers and responsibilities directly from the Workers Compensation Act 1978. The Act establishes the legal framework for:
- Compulsory employer insurance
- Compensation for work-related injury
- Benefits for permanent incapacity
- Dependant entitlements for fatal injury
- Medical and rehabilitation expenses
- Dispute resolution and appeals
What the Office delivers
Our work spans the full lifecycle of workers compensation — from employer registration to the final determination of a claim.
Administer claims
Receive, register, assess and determine workers compensation claims under the Act.
Determine entitlements
Apply the statutory schedule to calculate fair compensation for injury, incapacity or death.
Register employers
Maintain the register of employers and ensure compulsory insurance coverage.
Enforce compliance
Monitor and enforce employer obligations and investigate non-compliance.
Support workers
Guide injured workers and dependants through the compensation process.
Promote safety
Advance occupational health and safety awareness across all industries.
Clear lines of accountability
The Office operates within a transparent reporting structure that ensures accountability to the people of Papua New Guinea.
Ministry of Labour & Employment
The Office of Workers Compensation sits within the Ministry of Labour and Employment, which leads national policy on employment, industrial relations, workplace safety and labour standards.
This connection ensures that workers compensation is administered in step with the broader goals of a fair, safe and productive labour market for Papua New Guinea.
Get in touchPart of a national commitment to PNG's workers
As an agency of the Ministry, the OWC contributes to the Government's vision of empowering citizens through safe and dignified work. We collaborate with departments, industry bodies and provincial administrations nationwide.