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ARTICLE · 16 AUGUST 2011

Singing In Tune? OH&S Harmonisation in Australia

Cooper Grace Ward
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OH&S laws in each state will be reformed to ‘harmonise’ principles, obligations and procedures.

AustraliaEmployment and HR
Belinda Winter
Belinda Winter
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On 1 January 2012, the occupational health and safety laws in each Australian state and territory will be reformed to 'harmonise' occupational health and safety principles, obligations and procedures across Australia. This was achieved through the adoption of the Model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act (model act) by the states and territories.

Currently, South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales have all passed legislation to bring this change into effect. Western Australia has indicated that it will adopt the majority of the model act (albeit not in its entirety) while the remaining states, territories and the Commonwealth are expected to introduce their legislation before the end of the year.

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