The five-yearly review of the Work Health Safety Act is now under way.
The review, which will be led by three independent reviewers, aims to ensure robust health and safety laws are in place to protect workers and ensure that those in control of workplaces are held to account if the law is not followed.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Grace Grace said every worker in the State had a right to be safe in their workplace and to return home safely and healthy to their families and loved ones at the end of the day.
“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,” Ms Grace said.
“Five years on, it’s time to ensure Queensland’s laws remain robust, effective, and enforceable.”
She said the review is to be led by Craig Allen (former Deputy Director General of the Office of Industrial Relations – pictured); Charles Massy, (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.
“They will be assisted by leading academics in work health and safety regulation.”
She said the review would also have a strong focus on consultation with stakeholders, including industry groups, employers, registered industrial organisations, the legal profession, academics, and Government Agencies.
