Work Health Safety Act set for review

The Palaszczuk Government today announced that a five-yearly review of the Work Health Safety Act will begin next week.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said robust health and safety laws are critical to ensuring workers are protected, and that those in control of workplaces are held to account if the law is not followed.

“Every single worker in Queensland has the right to be safe in the workplace, and to return home safe and healthy to their families and loved ones at the end of the day,” Ms Grace said.

“The Palaszczuk Government has a long and proud history of standing up for Queensland workers.

“Following the comprehensive Best Practice Review of the Act in 2017, we have introduced nation leading reforms, including making industrial manslaughter an offence and establishing the independent office of the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor.

“Five years on, it’s time to ensure Queensland’s laws remain robust, effective, and enforceable.”

The review will be led by three independent reviewers: Craig Allen, former Deputy Director General of the Office of Industrial Relations; Charles Massy, a barrister specialising in Industrial Relations and Employment; and Deirdre Swan, former Deputy President of the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission.

“The three reviewers are eminently qualified and bring a mix of regulatory, practical, and legal perspectives to this important review,” Ms Grace said.

“The reviewers will be assisted by leading academics in work health and safety regulation.

“The review will also have a strong focus on consultation with stakeholders including industry groups, employers, registered industrial organisations, the legal profession, academics, and government agencies.”

ENDS

Media contact for Minister Grace: Kate Talbot, 0439 803 211

Media contact for Office of Industrial Relations: 0478 33 22 00