Newman Government listens to small business

The Newman Government is seeking feedback from small business on the impact of national workplace health and safety laws, twelve months after their introduction.

Attorney-General Jarrod Bleijie said supporting small business was a priority for the Government and urged owners to participate in an online survey released today.

“In 2012, the Federal and State Governments agreed to introduce model laws so workplace health and safety legislation was similar in each jurisdiction,” Mr Bleijie said.

“The legislation has been in place for a year and we want to find out if business owners are aware of their obligations and what the cost impact has been.

“It’s important that workers are adequately protected, without slugging small business with unnecessary paperwork and over-regulation.

“No owner wants a poor workplace safety record and as a government we are committed to doing what we can to help small business.

“Large industry has the capacity to invest in state-of-the-art technology and employ more staff, which often makes it easier for them to comply with new legislation.

“Being safe at work is essential for both employers and employees but we want to ensure small business owners don’t feel disadvantaged financially by the changes.”

Minister for Small Business Jann Stuckey said the results of the survey would guide the Government in considering any possible changes to workplace health and safety laws.

“We promised Queenslanders we would grow a four-pillar economy and that is exactly what we are doing by finding out the real needs of small business owners,” Ms Stuckey said.

“We will also invite businesses to take part in focus groups across the state to look deeper into any significant issues highlighted by the survey.

“This Government is committed to working with business rather than just telling them what to do without consultation.

“Queensland is a great place to do business and the Newman Government is committed to supporting smaller operators and getting the state’s finances back on track.”
 
The online survey can be completed anonymously at www.business.qld.gov.au

Register at www.worksafe.qld.gov.au or by calling the WHS Infoline at 1300 369 915.

[ENDS] 27 February 2013

Media contact: Matt Johnston 0432 535 893