The NSW Government has introduced a Bill into the State Parliament to establish SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator.
Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis said the establishment of SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator reflects the Government’s commitment to preventing workplace deaths, injuries and illnesses.
“Every worker has the right to go home safely at the end of the day. By creating SafeWork NSW as a standalone agency, the NSW Government is strengthening our ability to enforce WHS laws, support businesses to meet their obligations and drive cultural change to prevent workplace harm,” said Ms Cotsis.
“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.”
The Minister says the new structure will ensure SafeWork NSW will become a strong, robust and fit-for-purpose regulator capable of effectively securing safer and healthier workplaces in NSW.
The Bill will also establish 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 Government said in a statement today.
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, said Minister Cotsis.
