A Comparison of Occupational Safety and Health Statutes in Australia and New Zealand

Abstract

This paper compares the scope and coverage of primary OSH statutes in Australia and New Zealand. Australia has recently introduced a new Workplace Health and Safety Act (the WHS Act). This paper contrasts broader coverage of “workers” under the WHS Act, including that of volunteers, children and other people in the workplace, with the coverage under the New Zealand HSE Act. It explores potential benefits of aspects of each jurisdiction’s legislation including requirements for risk assessment and management, Directors’ and Officers duties’, consultation, HSR Officers’ functions and protection against discrimination