Response from the WorkSafe Commissioner in relation to the Regulatory Capability Review of WorkSafe Mines Safety.
The report from the Review made recommendations to improve WorkSafe Mines Safety’s enforcement model when responding to incidents of sexual harassment and assault in the mining industry.
WorkSafe has directed significant attention to the Review’s 43 recommendations that aim to improve enforcement structure, services, talent and systems. Since the Review, WorkSafe has identified and delivered: specialised competency and training; improved available measurement and analysis while planning for better system technologies; engaged experts to conduct detailed assessment of WorkSafe information materials for useability, trauma sensitivity, currency and accuracy; and reviewed the regulatory environment for better outcomes.
Importantly, WorkSafe recognises that psychosocial hazards, including sexual harassment, are present across sectors and is committed to improving information and compliance services accordingly.
Reducing sexual harassment and assault at work is a priority for WorkSafe. Psychosocial hazards have been identified as a priority in WorkSafe’s three-year strategy, WorkSafe: The way forward. WorkSafe is committed to continuing to evolve its regulatory approach to gendered violence at work and encourages all stakeholders to do their part to reduce such risks too. Everyone has the right to a safe workplace and to be treated with respect at work.