Public service minister Eric Abetz has turned his back on the Commonwealth workers' compensation scheme, going for a more exclusive scheme for high-level politicians only.

While Abetz attacks Comcare – the insurance scheme for thousands of public servants – it appears that MPs and Senators have been carving out their own scheme.

For some, the hypocrisy is palpable.

Reports say work on a different coverage arrangement for 225 federal parliamentarians has been going on for some time.

The new MP injury compensation scheme, funded with $1.4 million over four years, “will provide a senator or member with an entitlement to compensation in respect of an injury that arises out of, or in the course of the performance of, his or her duties as a parliamentarian,” according to budget papers.

It is unclear if the elite entitlements will match those of everyday public servants.

Senator Abetz has vocally criticised the Comcare scheme, claiming public servants were rorting their entitlements.

Abetz has introduced legislation into the Parliament to cut eligibility for compensation, and impose other new restrictions.

The legal community has accused the minister of hypocrisy.

Australian Lawyers Alliance National President Andrew Stone says politicians are looking after themselves while hacking away at workers' rights.

“While the government is trying to tear the heart out of the Comcare scheme as a 'cost-saving measure', it is simultaneously launching its own gold-plated parliamentary injury compensation scheme,” Mr Stone said.

“There is no need or reason for an expensive new injury compensation scheme to be introduced solely for politicians.

“As public servants, parliamentary members and senators should be covered under the existing Comcare scheme.”