The Minns Labor Government is set to introduce a bill in NSW Parliament to establish SafeWork NSW as an independent regulator, marking a significant step towards enhancing workplace safety across the state. This move underscores the government’s commitment to preventing workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses.
Key Changes and Improvements
- Standalone Regulator: SafeWork NSW will transition from its current position within the Department of Customer Service to become an independent agency.
- New Advisory Council: A council comprising representatives from employer organizations, unions, WHS experts, and injured workers’ advocates will be established to guide the Minister and SafeWork NSW.
- SafeWork Commissioner: A new leadership role will be created to enforce compliance, promote best practices, and engage with workers, unions, and businesses.
Key Changes and Improvements
- Standalone Regulator: SafeWork NSW will transition from its current position within the Department of Customer Service to become an independent agency.
- New Advisory Council: A council comprising representatives from employer organizations, unions, WHS experts, and injured workers’ advocates will be established to guide the Minister and SafeWork NSW.
- SafeWork Commissioner: A new leadership role will be created to enforce compliance, promote best practices, and engage with workers, unions, and businesses.
Benefits of the Restructure
- Enhanced Enforcement: The independent status will empower SafeWork NSW to more effectively enforce WHS laws.
- Improved Support: Businesses will receive better guidance on meeting their safety obligations.
- Cultural Shift: The changes aim to drive a cultural transformation in workplace safety practices.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis emphasised, “Every worker has the right to go home safely at the end of the day. This restructure will strengthen our ability to enforce WHS laws and support businesses in creating safer workplaces.”
The establishment of SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator aligns with the government’s vision of a robust and responsive work health and safety framework for all NSW workers.
