Australia’s New Workplace Health and Safety Code Raises the Bar for Care Providers
Australia’s new Model Code of Practice introduces an industry-specific framework to better manage workplace health and safety risks across healthcare and social assistance sectors. (Source: Fotor AI)
On 4 July 2025, Safe Work Australia released a new Model Code of Practice for the Healthcare and Social Assistance Industry, marking the most comprehensive update to workplace health and safety (WHS) standards in the sector in over a decade. This policy shift will have wide-reaching operational, compliance, and financial implications for healthcare and social assistance providers nationwide.
Why This Policy Matters
The healthcare and social assistance industry employs over 2 million workers, many in hospitals, aged care, disability services, and home-based care.
The sector records the highest rate of workplace injuries in Australia, with workers’ compensation claims more than double the national average.
Common risks include manual handling injuries, workplace violence and aggression, psychosocial hazards, fatigue, and exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
By formally codifying industry-specific risk management requirements, the new Code sets a minimum national benchmark for WHS compliance and will soon be enforceable once adopted by states and territories.
Key Policy and Compliance Changes
Minimum Legal Benchmark:
Once adopted, the Code will be admissible in court as evidence of what is “reasonably practicable” in risk management. Inspectors will use it to issue improvement or prohibition notices.
Expanded Duty Holder Obligations:
Employers, managers, and workers must now demonstrate clear processes for risk assessment, hazard control, and staff consultation.
Detailed Hazard-Specific Guidance:
Providers are required to address:
Hazardous manual tasks and equipment risks
Psychosocial and fatigue-related hazards
Violence, aggression, harassment, and bullying
Biological and chemical exposures
Environmental hazards in both institutional and home-care settings
Market Implications and Challenges
Operational Impact: Providers must review and update all WHS systems, policies, and procedures to meet the new national standard. This could mean increased administrative costs and the need for external audits.
Financial Pressure: Non-compliance carries heightened legal and reputational risks, with penalties expected to rise as enforcement tightens.
Workforce Engagement: Implementing the Code will require robust training and communication strategies, particularly for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) workforces.
Sector-Wide Opportunities: The reforms create demand for WHS consulting, training programs, technology solutions (incident management, e-learning), and workforce wellbeing platforms.
Next Steps for Care Providers
Conduct a WHS Gap Analysis: Benchmark current systems against the new Code.
Update Policies and Procedures: Ensure alignment with hazard-specific requirements.
Invest in Training: Equip leaders and frontline workers with the knowledge and tools to comply.
Monitor State and Territory Adoption: Regulations may vary by jurisdiction as the Code is implemented.
Leverage Technology: Digital safety management platforms can streamline reporting, risk assessment, and compliance tracking.
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