Safety Bulletin – September 2022
Australia – Psychosocial WHS amendments and code of practice under consideration
Comcare has stated that the Australian Government is considering adopting the amended model WHS Regulations and Code of Practice for psychosocial hazard management in the Commonwealth.
Queensland – Work Health and Safety Act under review
The QLD Government has announced the commencement of a review of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. The independent reviewers will be examining how the Act is meeting its objects and any need for amendments, including in relation to health and safety representatives, worker representation, enforcement notices, and issue and dispute resolution. Public consultation will be open in early September and the review findings are anticipated to be presented in late 2022.
South Australia – Reforms to SA’s return to work scheme passed
The Return to Work (Scheme Sustainability) Amendment Act 2022 has passed and will introduce significant reforms which are intended to improve the financial sustainability of South Australia’s Return to Work scheme and ensure the scheme continues to support injured workers. Changes will be introduced progressively, with the new serious injuries threshold of 35% for physical injuries commencing on 1 January 2023.