Laura Martin, EML’s Progam and Change Manager, is a PIEF 2025 finalist for outstanding leadership, recognising her decades-long commitment to reshaping how care is delivered in the workers compensation and personal injury sector.
For more than two decades, Laura Martin has reshaped how care is delivered in the workers compensation and personal injury sector. Her vision has always been clear – build systems that put people first, where innovation, empathy, and collaboration guide better outcomes for injured workers.
At EML, Laura has been the driving force behind the rollout of Mobile Case Management (MCM) and Recovery Case Management (RCM) — programs that have transformed recovery pathways in Victoria and earned industry recognition including the WorkSafe Award for Excellence. From the very beginning, Laura recognised the importance of collaboration. She engaged regulators, industry bodies, and internal teams to ensure the models weren’t just ambitious, but sustainable.
“I have never seen, in all my time in this industry, a better example of how to manage a team and process area well… To say she blew me away is a gross understatement.” Sonya Shrimpton, Risk & Compliance Manager, EML
Leading with empathy and collaboration
Laura’s leadership style is grounded in inclusiveness and trust. She is known for creating environments where people feel heard and supported – whether leading workshops, chairing committees, or mentoring future leaders.
As Chair of EML’s Complex Claims Advisory Committee, Laura brought together representatives from EML, WorkSafe Victoria, the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and the Victorian Trades Hall Council. Her ability to unify diverse perspectives has shaped practical solutions to some of the industry’s most complex challenges.
“Laura leads with purpose, inspires collaboration, and influences outcomes through trust, empathy, and a deep commitment to shared success.” David Pickering, Group Executive, EML
Innovation with lasting impact
The success of the Recovery Case Management program is just one example of Laura’s impact. Designed to identify barriers beyond the injury itself, the program has significantly improved recovery outcomes for workers with complex needs. It is an approach which continues to influence practice across the industry, embodying EML’s purpose of helping people get their lives back.
“Laura has been instrumental in both developing and supporting the RCM pilot. Her knowledge and skills to manage a project from start to finish are second to none.” Megan Bell, Group Manager, EML
Recognising outstanding leadership
Laura’s contributions over her 25-year career have set benchmarks in innovation, collaboration, and leadership that continue to inspire those around her. Her influence extends beyond EML, helping to strengthen the workers compensation and personal injury industry as a whole.
Congratulations Laura — we wish you every success at the PIEF Awards Gala Dinner on 27 October.
FAQs
What are mobile case managers?
- Mobile case managers provide in-person support and care when its needed most, travelling to meet with injured workers, employers and treating health providers to facilitate recovery and return to work. Read more here Mobile Case Managers – In-person recovery help
Can you tell me more about EML Victoria?
- EML was appointed as an agent for WorkSafe Victoria in 2016, and since then has grown to support nearly a quarter of all business in the state to manage their WorkCover insurance policy and claims. We take care of everything – from medical treatment and compensation to return-to-work assistance.
- Our Melbourne and Geelong offices are home to over 500 claims specialists and our mobile case managers are on the ground across Victoria, providing in-person guidance to ensure workers and employers get the care and clarity they need when it matters most. You can find out more through the WorkSafe Victoria area on our website.
What are the PIEF Awards?
- The Excellence in Personal Injury and Disability Management Awards are a key component of Australia’s premier conference for the personal injury and disability management industry. The conference PIEF 2025 Sydney Evolve the Future is Now will run from the 26-28 October. More details are available through the event website.
What is the PIEF Award for Outstanding Leadership?
- The Outstanding Leadership Award, awarded by the Personal Injury Education Foundation (PIEF), is a recognition for individuals who have demonstrate excellent leadership in the personal injury and workers compensation sectors.
When will the winner for the PIEF Award for Outstanding Leadership be announced?
- Personal Injury and Education Foundation (PIEF) will host the Awards Gala Dinner at the ICC in Sydney on 27 October 2025. The winners will be announced during this event.
