Work Health Safety Act to be reviewed

The five-yearly review of Queensland’s workplace health and safety laws will kick-off next week.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said today that a three-member independent review panel would be tasked with a “robust” review of Queensland’s Work Health Safety Act 2011.

The review will be led by former Queensland Office of Industrial Relations Deputy Director Craig Allen, former Queensland Industrial Relations Commission Deputy President Deirdre Swan and specialist IR and Employment lawyer Charles Massy.

“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.

“The review will also have a strong focus on consultation with stakeholders including industry groups, employers, registered industrial organisations, the legal profession, academics, and government agencies.”

Ms Grace said robust health and safety laws were critical in ensuring workers are protected, and that those in control of workplaces are held to account if the law is not followed.

“Every single worker in Queensland has the right to be safe in the workplace, and to return home safe and healthy to their families and loved ones at the end of the day,” Ms Grace said. “Five years on, it’s time to ensure Queensland’s laws remain robust, effective, and enforceable.”