Nationwide Feedback Shapes Best Practice Review of Model WHS Laws

Safe Work Australia has published a detailed summary of feedback received during public consultation for the Best Practice Review of the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws. This consultation marks a significant step in ensuring that WHS legislation, WHS management systems and related policies remain contemporary, practical and effective in preventing workplace incidents.

During the consultation period, Safe Work Australia received 1,055 written responses. Of these, 118 were formal written submissions, with the remainder provided through an online survey. In addition, representatives visited every capital city and two regional centres – Bunbury in Western Australia and Geelong in Victoria – to engage directly with stakeholders and gather on-the-ground insights.

Over 100 meetings were held with a broad cross-section of the community, including employers, industry associations, unions, WHS regulators, government agencies, academics, WHS professionals, community organisations, and individuals and families affected by workplace fatalities and serious injuries. This broad engagement helps ensure that any recommended changes to the model WHS laws are informed by real-world experience and reflect current operational challenges and best practice.

The consultation summary released today outlines the key themes and recurring issues raised across submissions, surveys and meetings. These themes will help guide potential improvements to how duties are understood and applied, how Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) are implemented in high-risk work, and how WHS policies and procedures support safer workplaces. For organisations seeking to strengthen their internal frameworks, structured WHS management systems and robust SWMS can play an important role in aligning practice with legislative expectations.

Feedback from the consultation process will directly inform Safe Work Australia’s final report to WHS ministers. This report, which will be provided for consideration in August 2026, is expected to include findings and recommendations aimed at enhancing the clarity, consistency and effectiveness of the model WHS laws across jurisdictions.

The Best Practice Review and its consultation findings will support ongoing improvements in how PCBUs, workers and other duty holders manage work health and safety risks, and how WHS management systems and documentation are used to drive continuous improvement in safety outcomes.