Help Shape Stronger Welding Safety Regulations Across Australia
29 May 2026•BlueSafe Team•Source: Safe Work Australia
Safe Work Australia is seeking feedback on proposed changes to how welding activities are regulated, with the goal of improving protection for workers and others from welding-related risks.
Safe Work Australia has opened consultation on a range of options to strengthen the regulation of welding processes, with a clear focus on improving safety outcomes for workers and anyone who may be exposed to welding-related hazards.
The proposed changes are intended to clarify duties and responsibilities when welding is carried out, ensuring persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) understand their obligations under WHS laws. This includes how welding risks are identified, controlled and monitored through robust WHS management systems, safe work method statements (SWMS) and workplace policies.
A detailed consultation paper has been released, outlining both regulatory and non-regulatory options. It summarises key issues raised by stakeholders about the current framework, highlights gaps in existing arrangements and explains the rationale for potential reforms to better manage welding fumes, fire and explosion risks, confined space hazards and other welding-related exposures.
Feedback collected through this process will be reviewed by Safe Work Australia Members and will inform any future recommendations to improve the national work health and safety framework for welding operations.
All interested stakeholders are encouraged to participate, including PCBUs, workers, health and safety representatives, industry bodies, unions, WHS professionals and equipment suppliers. Submissions can address any aspect of the consultation paper, from technical controls and administrative measures to the practical implementation of SWMS and welding-specific WHS policies and procedures. For organisations seeking to strengthen their internal documentation, a range of WHS management systems is available commercially, such as those offered at Bluesafe Online.
To have your say, visit Safe Work Australia's Consultation Hub to access the consultation paper and respond via the online survey or by uploading a written submission.
The consultation period is open until 11:59 pm (AEST) on 12 July 2026.