Australian workplace guide
Workplace safety duties across Australian jurisdictions
Understand the model WHS framework, Victoria’s OHS system and the need to check local requirements.
Model laws and local laws
The model WHS laws are a framework for harmonisation. They are not a single Act that applies identically throughout Australia. Jurisdictions that implement them can make variations; Victoria uses its own OHS framework.
Managing risk
Identify hazards, eliminate or minimise risks so far as reasonably practicable, consult workers and review controls when circumstances change. Information and training support safe work, alongside suitable equipment, work systems and supervision.
Who enforces the law?
State, territory and Commonwealth regulators enforce the laws in their jurisdictions. Safe Work Australia develops national policy and guidance; it is not the workplace regulator and does not receive incident notifications.
Further guidance
Online awareness training supports learning. It does not replace workplace-specific risk controls, instruction, supervision or any required licence or nationally recognised training.