This is the biggest single change to happen to OHS in a decade. Unfortunately we are going to have to wait until 2012 before a new national system comes into force. Right now the new Act is not planned for launch until January 2012.

The aim of the reforms is to ensure equal standards apply across the nation. Right now business owners, executives, company directors and safety professionals are daily faced with the task of complying with over 400 OHS codes and regulations. Everyone agrees that for a country with the relatively small population of Australia this represents an overly complex and arcane system that is overdue for change.

Reducing the differences between states will be an important issue for any business operating across a number of borders. The changes and alignment of regulatory black letter law will present opportunity for companies with a national presence to realize operational improvements as well as reduce professional costs.

National companies with operations in each state and territory have long complained about the unnecessary financial burden each OHS systems places on them for what they see as little benefit. The hope is that with the new OHS Act we will see a better set of heath and safety outcomes as well as economic cost improvements. Afterall, the true effectiveness of any OHS system is in the prevention of injury or death in the workplace.

If anyone has information about the reform or the process we would love to hear from you. As the new Act is developed and crafted we hope to keep each other up-to-date by sharing insights, opinions and news. Please help by passing along anything that you feel is of interest or would help others better understand the changes.