The Andrews Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to ensure high safety standards are met in Victorian workplaces, appointing an expert panel to review and strengthen occupational health and safety (OHS) standards across the state.
The review panel will make recommendations to improve the health and safety outcomes for Victorian workers, ensuring Victoria remains the safest state in Australia in which to work.
The panel will report on WorkSafe’s compliance and enforcement policy and activities, its provision of OHS compliance information and the promotion of OHS awareness, education and training.
It will be chaired by Dr Claire Noone who has significant experience in regulatory policy and practice, including as a senior executive within the Department of Justice and at Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Dr Noone also brings a thorough understanding and appreciation of the crucial role WorkSafe plays in Victorian workplaces, from her time at WorkSafe between 2000-2003.
Panel members include Ms Cathy Butcher, who has extensive experience in OHS advocacy and regulatory reform, and Ms Margaret Donnan, who has substantial industry experience including in major hazards.
The panel will undertake extensive stakeholder consultation and is expected to report back to the Minister by the end of the year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance Robin Scott
“Workplace safety is a key priority of the Andrews Labor Government and this review will determine what’s working and what can be improved to ensure that Victorians return home safely.”
“I am pleased to appoint the OHS review panel and am confident that their collective knowledge and experience will allow for a thorough review of WorkSafe’s compliance and enforcement activity.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020