A recent WHS prosecution involving both a host employer and on-hire provider has put the spotlight back on shared responsibilities in labour hire. This case reinforces that duties under WHS law aren’t optional—or transferable.

A Victorian business has been fined $90,000 after failing to prevent workplace sexual harassment, highlighting the critical importance of having workplace policies and training in place. The case underscores legal and financial risks for employers who neglect their duty of care in managing psychosocial hazards.

In a landmark case underscoring the critical importance of managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace, the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is facing charges under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011. SafeWork NSW alleges that WSLHD exposed two nurses to psychological risks by mishandling a workplace investigation, highlighting issues of poor organisational justice and inadequate grievance resolution. This prosecution signals an increasing regulatory focus on employers' responsibilities to address psychosocial risks, emphasising the necessity for fair and effective workplace investigation processes.

The debate over working from home is far from settled. In January 2025, President Trump issued an executive order requiring federal employees to return to the office full-time. This month, Australia’s Opposition Party announced plans to mandate the same for public servants if they win the next election.

Despite this, remote work remains a key part of how Australians work, with 36% of the workforce working from home as of August 2024 (ABS). As governments push for office-based work, businesses must navigate complex legal obligations to ensure compliance while maintaining workplace flexibility.

Early intervention in workers’ compensation is key to lowering costs, reducing premiums, and improving employee recovery. Discover how proactive claim management can protect your business and support your workforce.

On 11 February 2025, WorkSafe Victoria published details of a case that highlights the serious responsibilities on-hire providers have for worker health and safety—both physical and psychological—when placing workers at host workplaces.

As 2024 comes to an end, it’s the perfect time for businesses to reflect on their WHS systems and ask an important question: What does WHS success look like for us in 2025?