Psychosocial hazards and harassment codes of practice commence

New codes of practice on psychosocial hazards and sexual and gender-based harassment have commenced in South Australia.

The codes of practice — Managing psychosocial hazards at work and Sexual and gender-based harassment— commenced in the jurisdiction on 19 February 2026; based on the national model Code of Practice developed by Safe Work Australia, the codes incorporate significant further consultation with South Australian unions and employer representatives.

The new codes of practice follow the adoption of the Work Health and Safety (Psychosocial Risks) Amendment Regulations 2023, which came into effect in South Australia on 25 December 2023.

Unreasonable job demands, lack of role clarity, fatigue, inadequate rewards and recognition, job insecurity and traumatic events or material in the workplace are common examples of psychosocial hazards.

Sexual and gender-based harassment is also a psychosocial risk and can occur across all industries. It can cause physical and psychological harm to the person it is directed at and anyone witnessing the behaviour.

In the psychosocial code, 17 types of hazards are defined, including the harmful workplace behaviours of bullying, sexual harassment and aggression.

In the code, how to consult with workers is explained, the code also including:

• different types of control measures descriptions;
• recording the risk management process and outcomes guidance;
• responding to reports, complaints or incidents, including through formal investigations, guidance; and
• case studies describing how psychosocial risks can be managed in different industry and workplace settings.
   

The sexual and gender-based harassment code provides clear definitions and descriptions on a range of harassment and behaviours based on gender and sex that create a risk of harm at work.

“Managing psychosocial hazards should not just be a legal duty — it should be the core of every business who cares for its workers and wants the best success,” said SafeWork SA Executive Director Glenn Farrell.

“These codes of practice are a vital tool to help employers identify, control and manage psychosocial safety risks at work, as well as informing workers of their rights to a safe workplace,” Farrell added.

“The regulations and new codes of practice will support businesses in ensuring their most valuable assets — their workers — are free from harm at work.”

If you are affected by any of the issues discussed in this article, 1800RESPECT has a 24/7 support service that can help; please call 1800 737 732.

Image credit: iStock.com/RainStar. Stock image used is for illustrative purposes only.