The model WHS Acts and Regulations

Since publication of this note, WA passed a version of the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws, which became operational on 31 March 2022. See Safe Work Australia for further information.

This document has been prepared as a guide to assist architects to be familiar with, and comply with the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) Act and the WHS Regulations made under it.

At present, the model WHS Act (with slight variations) has been adopted by each of:

  • Australian Capital Territory
  • New South Wales
  • Northern Territory
  • Queensland
  • South Australia
  • Tasmania
  • The Commonwealth 

as the replacement for prior occupational health and safety legislation.

Page contents
  1. Introduction
  2. Salient and fundamental principles of the WHS Act to keep in mind
  3. Codes of practice
  4. Definitions
  5. Specific designer obligations
  6. Your client's duties
  7. Other requirements of you, as the designer
  8. Impact on actual design