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Comcare supports model OHS legislation

Media release

- 22 Sep 2009

Today, Comcare Chief Executive Officer, Mr Paul O’Connor, voiced his support for the new model occupational health and safety (OHS) legislation.

The model laws are being driven by Safe Work Australia, in partnership with the Commonwealth, state and territory governments and employer and employee groups.

“Safe Work Australia has made great progress on the model legislation. This reform will help build safer workplaces in the community and increase productivity,” said Mr O’Connor.

“Model legislation will allow employers to effectively manage workplace safety and work to one set of laws regardless of which state or territory they are operating in.

“The harmonisation of OHS legislation supports Comcare’s aim – to work in partnership with employers, workers and the community to protect the health, safety and welfare of all workers.”

Mr O’Connor said that “I would anticipate that the Commonwealth jurisdiction will be an early adopter of the new laws.”

Mr Tom Phillips AM, Chair of the Safe Work Australia Council, encouraged industry representatives, employers and employees to voice their opinions during the public comment period of the draft model OHS legislation.

“We need the views of the community to ensure the new legislation is relevant to all Australian workers. This public comment process will give people the opportunity to actively participate in the development of model OHS legislation and ensure their voice is heard.

“I recognise that committing to the harmonisation of OHS laws will mean changes for all jurisdictions. This will not be at the expense of the safety of Australian workers,” said Mr Phillips.

The documents to be released for public comment include an exposure draft of the model Act, model administrative Regulations and the draft Consultation Regulation Impact Statement.

The public comment period will open in late September and run for six weeks.

Further information on model OHS legislation can be found at www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au

- Ends -

Media inquiries:
Ph: 1300 366 979
Email: media@comcare.gov.au

Media release - Comcare supports model OHS legislation [pdf version]