What’s up with the work health and safety laws harmonisation?

With some states confirming their decision to delay the commencement of harmonised WHS laws, it is now understood that the full harmonisation of the laws won’t be possible by 1 January 2012. While the Northern Territory, New South Wales, ACT, Queensland and Commonwealth have committed to the commencement of the new harmonised laws, Victoria, Western Australia, Tasmania, and South Australia have decided to delay its implementation.

In addition to passing the WHS Bill, Queensland has adapted 11 new codes of practice through the national harmonisation process. It has also amended 23 preserved codes of practice to be consistent with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

New South Wales committed $550,000 dedicated to grants in developing training programs and other activities to assist small businesses in following the new laws.

The Northern Territory passed the WHS Bill through Parliament. The ACT passed its WHS Bill in September.

South Australia postponed debates on the harmonised laws until February 2012.

Victoria and Western Australia have also decided to delay commencement of the new laws. Tasmania will also delay the implementation of the harmonised law for another twelve months. The Bill was sent back to the Lower House for debate in March 2012.

The model WHS Act aims to formally harmonise work health and safety legislations across Australia.

Source: Safety Culture
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With some states confirming their decision to delay the commencement of harmonised WHS laws, it is now understood that the full harmonisation of the laws won’t be possible by 1 January 2012. While the Northern Territory, New South Wales, ACT, Queensland and Commonwealth have committed to the commencement of the new harmonised laws, Victoria, Western Australia, Tasmania, and South Australia have decided to delay its implementation.
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