The NSW Government has passed legislation to officially establish SafeWork NSW as a standalone safety regulator, as it continues strengthening protections for workers.
The Government said that under the former structure, SafeWork NSW was unable to fully fulfil the functions expected of the regulator.
Since coming to government, the Minns regime has already undertaken significant reform to prepare SafeWork NSW for the transition.
Under the former government, SafeWork NSW was part of the Department of Customer of Service and was not able to fully fulfil the functions expected of the state’s work health and safety regulator.
The bill also establishes a new Advisory Council to provide advice to the Minister for Work Health and Safety and SafeWork NSW on how it can support both workers and businesses in creating the safest possible workplaces. The Council will be made up of representatives from employer organisations, unions, a WHS expert and a member representing the interests of injured workers and their families.
The new executive agency will be led by a SafeWork Commissioner appointed in due course.
The SafeWork Commissioner will lead the agency with clear authority to enforce compliance, promote best practices and engage meaningfully with workers, unions and businesses across all industries in NSW.
Work, Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis said the passage of the bill was important for worker safety in the state.
“Every worker has the right to go home safely at the end of the day,” she said.
“We are slowly turning things around at SafeWork NSW as we restore it to being a regulator with teeth.
“The NSW Government is committed to establishing SafeWork NSW as a strong, robust and responsive WHS regulator.
“Through the establishment of the SafeWork Advisory Council and the SafeWork Commissioner, we will ensure SafeWork NSW can secure safer and healthier workplaces for all workers in NSW.”