The NSW Government has passed legislation to officially establish SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator.
Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis said the new structure will ensure SafeWork NSW becomes a strong, robust and fit-for-purpose workplace health and safety regulator.
“Every worker has the right to go home safely at the end of the day,” said Minister Cotsis.
“This Bill passing the Parliament is important for worker safety in NSW. We are slowly turning things around at SafeWork NSW as we restore it to being a regulator with teeth.”
The new executive agency will be led by a SafeWork Commissioner, with recruitment currently underway, the Minister confirmed.
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, she said.
The new standalone regular will also feature an Advisory Council of experts 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 injured workers.
