New codes of practice target inappropriate workplace behaviours in WA

New Codes of Practice Target Inappropriate Workplace Behaviours in WA

Western Australia has released three new codes of practice covering inappropriate workplace behaviours, giving employers clearer guidance on managing conduct risks across the state.

The Code of Practice on Workplace Behaviour, the Code of Practice on Psychosocial Hazards in the Workplace and the Code of Practice on Violence and Aggression at Work were developed by the WA Commission for Occupational Safety and Health following growing concern across several industries.

Why WA Introduced Dedicated Codes of Practice

Western Australia has been operating under a code of practice covering violence, aggression and bullying since 2014. According to the government, the three new codes will ensure a wider range of inappropriate behaviour gets addressed under current health and safety management frameworks.

The government reports that hospitality and entertainment industries recorded a rise in abuse cases directed at staff following mask and COVID-19 vaccine mandates. This trend highlighted gaps in existing safety management approaches and prompted regulators to strengthen protections for frontline workers.

What the New Codes Cover

Each code provides practical management guidance tailored to specific workplace hazards, including:

• General inappropriate behaviour and bullying within workplace settings
• Psychosocial hazards affecting mental health and wellbeing
• Violence and aggression risks faced by workers, including community-facing services roles

Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston said, "Inappropriate behaviours are unacceptable in any workplace, and these codes provide practical risk management guidance that can be tailored to unique demands of each workplace."

This approach reflects broader efforts across Australian jurisdictions to standardise safety management practices while recognising that industries such as healthcare, aboriginal community services and hospitality face distinct risks requiring specific controls.

How These Codes Support Employers

Businesses operating in WA can use these codes to strengthen internal policies, update safety management systems and demonstrate compliance obligations under occupational health regulations. Employers across manufacturing, construction and healthcare sectors should review these updates alongside existing WHS codes of practice for WA to ensure full alignment.

Similar regulatory action has occurred elsewhere in Australia. Queensland recently introduced new codes of practice designed to protect workers, while the Northern Territory has also approved new codes of practice addressing workplace risks. Organisations operating across multiple states, including New Zealand, may also find it useful to consult the HSW approved codes of practice register for New Zealand when benchmarking their health and safety services against comparable standards.

For businesses seeking to update documentation in line with these changes, SafetyDocs offers a range of templates and management resources covering codes of practice, workplace behaviour policies and related compliance news relevant to industry professionals.

Read the full story on the WA Government website.