NSW delays phosphine exposure limit and stages diesel particulate changes

The phosphine decision followed extensive consultation with businesses and industry, which raised concerns about measuring the new limit, possible effects on biosecurity and export controls, and implementation midway through the upcoming harvest. Victoria and South Australia had earlier announced deferrals following stakeholder feedback.

The revised phosphine commencement date is intended to avoid disruption during harvest and allow further detailed consultation involving industry, unions, SafeWork NSW and other authorities. Workplace exposure limits are set nationally and implemented by states and territories through their own regulatory frameworks.

SafeWork NSW also consulted the NSW Resources Regulator about the implications for mining and resources. An interim exposure limit for diesel particulate matter will begin on 1 December 2026, followed by the new workplace exposure limit on 1 July 2028. The staged approach gives industry a transition period to make operational and workplace changes while protecting workers from hazardous airborne contaminants.

SafeWork NSW is providing resources, business toolkits and awareness information ahead of the broader transition to workplace exposure limits for airborne contaminants from 1 December 2026. These include a stakeholder kit, information distributed through its monthly newsletter, and material on its website.

Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis said the extension would allow industry concerns to be properly considered and give businesses time to prepare for the changes. She said the phosphine extension and staged diesel particulate matter arrangements were intended to support planning, while maintaining her commitment to protecting workers from harmful exposures.

SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer encouraged businesses to prepare for the transition. She said the additional time provided by the phosphine and diesel particulate matter exemptions would help industry plan and implement appropriate controls while continuing to protect workers.

Grain Trade Australia CEO Pat O’Shannassy welcomed the NSW decision but said the organisation and broader industry continued to seek a three-year deferral, consistent with Victoria and Western Australia. He said more time was needed to validate practical measurement methods and develop workable controls, with that work already underway. He also acknowledged SafeWork NSW’s engagement with industry and consideration of concerns about phosphine use across the grain supply chain.

NSW Farmers President Rebecca Reardon said the delay provided valuable certainty for growers and the wider industry during harvest. She credited collaboration involving NSW Farmers, GrainGrowers, GrainCorp and Grain Trade Australia. Although industry had sought a three-year extension, she said the additional 18 months would allow work with government, regulators, industry and the Grains Research and Development Corporation to build Australian evidence and develop practical guidance for revised exposure limits.

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