Public to have say on Model OHS Laws

The National Review into Model OHS Laws is now open to public review, with any interested persons invited to write a submission before 11 July 2008.

This provides an opportunity for the public to influence the direction of OHS reform in Australia.

The advisory panel conducting the review has published an issues paper to assist anyone making a written submission.

The review panel chair, Mr Stewart-Crompton, said that the panel is looking forward to the submissions but would appreciate evidence and reasoning to support any proposals.

“Our recommendations will be designed to improve OHS outcomes and we strongly encourage all who are making written submissions to explain how that might best be achieved in a model OHS law,” said Stewart-Crompton.

“We want to ensure that the legislative OHS framework is effective and responsive to the changing needs and working arrangements in Australian workplaces.”

The issues paper was developed under consultation with key stakeholders in all states and territories, to ensure it includes many issues that stakeholders see as central to the review.

In accordance with the review’s terms of reference, all matters raised in the submissions will be considered on their merits. Unless indicated otherwise, submissions will be made public on the review website.

The issues paper, together with a template for written submissions and details on how to lodge a submission by 11 July 2008, is at www.nationalohsreview.gov.au.