NSW bill to establish SafeWork as a standalone regulator
10 Mar 2025•BlueSafe Team•Source: SafeWork NSW
The NSW Government will introduce a bill to Parliament to establish SafeWork NSW as a standalone regulator, led by a new SafeWork Commissioner.
The proposed change is part of the Minns Labor Government’s reforms aimed at preventing workplace deaths, injuries and illnesses. The government has already undertaken reforms to prepare SafeWork NSW for standalone status.
The bill will also create an Advisory Council to advise the Minister for Work Health and Safety and SafeWork NSW on supporting workers and businesses to make workplaces safer.
Its membership will include representatives of employer organisations and unions, a work health and safety expert, and a member representing injured workers and their families.
A SafeWork Commissioner will be appointed to lead the new executive agency. The role will have authority to enforce compliance, promote best practices and engage with workers, unions and businesses across NSW industries.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said the standalone agency would strengthen the government’s ability to enforce WHS laws, help businesses meet their obligations and drive cultural change to prevent workplace harm.
“The NSW Government is committed to establishing SafeWork NSW as a strong, robust and responsive WHS regulator. Through the establishment of the SafeWork Advisory Council and the SafeWork Commissioner, we will ensure SafeWork NSW can secure safer and healthier workplaces for all workers in NSW.”
How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS self-check can help you review your business’s approach to work health and safety and identify areas that may need attention. Take the free WHS self-check