Key Changes from 1 July 2026
New workplace health and safety (WHS) requirements have commenced in New South Wales (NSW), placing greater obligations on employers to proactively manage psychosocial hazards in the workplace.
Importantly,
NSW WHS Codes of Practice now operate as legally enforceable minimum standards. Employers (PCBUs) must either comply with the relevant Code of Practice or be able to demonstrate that an alternative approach provides an equivalent or higher standard of protection.
What Employers Must Do
- Identify psychosocial hazards;
- Assess the associated risks;
- Implement control measures to eliminate or minimise risks; and
- Review the effectiveness of those controls.
These actions must be undertaken in consultation with workers.
Psychosocial Hazards Include
Examples of psychosocial hazards identified in the Code include:
- Excessive workloads and high job demands;
- Role conflict and poor role clarity;
- Low job control;
- Inadequate support;
- Workplace violence;
- Bullying and harassment; and
- Poor consultation during organisational change.
Why It Matters
The NSW Government has stated that these reforms are intended to provide clearer expectations for employers and strengthen the prevention of workplace psychological injuries.
SafeWork NSW has reported significant demand for regulatory assistance in this area, receiving more than 2,200 requests for service and over 190 notifications of workplace incidents involving psychosocial hazards.
Recommended Actions for Members
Members should consider:
- Reviewing existing psychosocial risk management frameworks;
- Assessing workplace psychosocial hazards and controls;
- Consulting with workers and health and safety representatives;
- Updating relevant policies, procedures and training; and
- Ensuring systems are in place to regularly monitor and review psychosocial risks.
Related Workers Compensation Changes
Members should also be aware that separate changes to the
NSW Workers Compensation Act commenced on 1 July 2026, including revised eligibility and impairment threshold requirements for psychological injury claims.
