The proposed new Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws did not pass State Parliament in time for the planned 1 January 2012 start date.
This means that the new laws are yet to come into effect. State Parliament does not reconvene until 14 February 2012 but the State Government is yet to announce a commencement date for the proposed new laws.
However, it is likely that the legislation will still be introduced to South Australia. It is therefore imperative that businesses ensure they are continuing to comply with the current laws (Occupational Health Safety and Welfare Act 1986), including continued Responsible Officer training and other legislative requirements. For more information on training courses offered through Business SA, scroll down/read on.
It is also essential that businesses understand their obligations and duties under the proposed WHS legislation. If and when the laws come into effect, businesses will need to comply from the first day or face non-compliance and associated penalties.
Business SA has been proactive and involved in the entire process, representing business’ best interests to ensure the best possible outcomes for South Australian businesses.
WHS Background
In June 2008, all jurisdictional governments, including the Commonwealth, agreed to harmonise Australia’s Work Health and Safety laws (WHS) to achieve a more uniform approach and eliminate confusion. Read more.
Work Health and Safety Bill 2011
A Bill is effectively a law waiting to be made and is essentially a draft of the Act. It must pass through both houses (House of Assembly and Legislative Council) of Parliament in order to take effect. Read more.
Model Regulations
While the Act sets the overall framework for work health and safety, establishes broad principles and penalties for breaches, Regulations provide more specific rules. Breaches of Regulations are considered a breach of the Act and are subject to criminal or civil proceedings. Read more on Model Regulations.
Model Codes of Practice
Codes of Practice provide advice on how to comply with Work Health and Safety requirements. They are not compulsory and alternative means to achieve compliance can be followed. Read more.
Legislative Update/Latest News
The harmonisation of Australia’s Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws will affect all South Australian business and all industries directly. Read more.
What seminars should I attend?
To ensure you are informed of the changes under WHS and understand what you need to do to be compliant, Business SA is running a series of seminars, along with its extensive program of training courses on WHS related issues. View all of our sessions and book here.
Consultancy Services
Business SA provides an OHS/WHS consultancy service that can help your business ensure compliance with both the existing OHS and soon to be introduced WHS legislation. Read more.
Business Publications
Business SA has been proactive and involved in the entire process, representing business’ best interests to ensure the best possible outcomes for South Australian businesses. Read more.
