Feedback sought on maritime crane safety reforms
16 Mar 2026•BlueSafe Team•Source: Safe Work Australia
Safe Work Australia is seeking views on potential reforms to improve the safety of crane operations in the maritime sector. Consultation closes at 11:59 pm (AEST) on Monday 27 April 2026.
Ship movement and changing maritime conditions create distinct work health and safety risks for cranes operating on vessels and in other dynamic environments.
Despite these risks, cranes are often operated without licensing, training and risk controls specifically suited to those environments.
Safe Work Australia has published a discussion paper on its Consultation Hub outlining potential reform options. Those options may change as further evidence, policy analysis and consultation responses are considered.
Regulatory changes would need agreement from Safe Work Australia Members. Significant proposed changes would also require approval from WHS ministers.
The consultation invites input from anyone with an interest or experience in ports, the maritime sector or crane operations. This includes regulators, government agencies, unions, workers, business and industry representatives, legal professionals and researchers.
Submissions can be lodged through Safe Work Australia’s Consultation Hub until the closing deadline.
How Blue Safe can help: Our free WHS self-check can help you review your business’s broader WHS practices and identify areas for closer attention while maritime crane safety reforms are considered. Take the free WHS self-check