OHS Commissioner retained in regulatory round-up

The Attorney General, Simon Corbell, has confirmed an independent Occupational Health and Safety Commissioner will remain as part of the Office of Regulatory Services.

The establishment of the Office of Regulatory Services was announced in last year's Budget and brought together the regulatory activities associated with the Office of Fair Trading, ACT WorkCover, the Registrar General's Office, Parking Operations, tobacco licensing, outdoor cafes and the Independent Competition and Regulatory Commission to remove unnecessary duplication of administrative costs.

"In finalising the organisational structure of the Office, the government has recognised the importance of issues associated with occupational health and safety," said Corbell.

"Under the revised arrangements, enforcement activities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act will now be undertaken by the Office of Regulatory Services, and the government has acknowledged the need to retain an independent Occupational Health and Safety Commissioner.

"The Occupational Health and Safety Commissioner will continue to be appointed by the Executive, and will remain responsible to the Minister for Industrial Relations for promoting understanding, acceptance of and compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and associated laws. The commissioner will also undertake research and development of educational programs to promote occupational health and safety and review ACT laws to ensure consistency with the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

"The Occupational Health and Safety Commissioner will continue to report and be accountable to the Legislative Assembly on these matters."

Legislation is currently being prepared to ensure retention of the independence of the Commissioner's office while appropriate amendments are made for the enforcement of Occupational Health and Safety laws by the Office of Regulatory Services.