Effective policy development requires robust stakeholder consultation. To deliver strategies that provide the highest level of protection for all working Australians we consult broadly to understand the health and safety risks and challenges faced by workers and by workplaces. We rely on the valuable contributions and expertise of Commonwealth, state and territory governments, unions, industry, employer associations, peak bodies, WHS regulators, workers’ compensation authorities, medical and health practitioners, educators, academics, researchers, businesses and workers, and in doing so we enable a truly multilateral consultation approach.

We also lead bilateral consultation with industry representatives to create sector-specific WHS guidance. We specifically target at-risk industries experiencing high rates of workplace death and injury. These priority industries include agriculture, road transport, manufacturing, construction, accommodation and food services, public administration and safety, health care and social assistance. We also ensure we engage with the international WHS community.

Engaging with stakeholders to develop proposals to improve workers’ compensation arrangements and strengthen the connection with health and safety outcomes is also a priority. Our diverse stakeholders play a vital role in promoting a nationally consistent approach to workers’ compensation arrangements where appropriate, and informing guidance to help workers with an injury or illness achieve optimal recovery and return to suitable work.