Mar 13th 2026 |
Safe Work Australia publishes online model Code of Practice for healthcare and social assistance sector
Safe Work Australia has published an online model Code of Practice for the healthcare and social assistance sector, delivering the same practical work health and safety (WHS) advice as the published document — now in a web format built for fast navigation and everyday use.
Same guidance, clearer online format
The federal regulatory body stated that this digital edition offers advice identical to the previously released text-based version, presented in a clear, user-friendly layout that simplifies both access and application of vital guidance.
“Designed to support employers and workers across Australia’s largest and fastest growing sector – employing more than 2 million people and recording the highest number of work-related injuries – the online model Code provides clear, practical advice to help manage workplace risks and meet work health and safety (WHS) duties,” Safe Work Australia said.
Why this guidance matters for healthcare providers
Healthcare and social assistance employs more Australians than any other industry, and safety risks stretch from patient handling and sharps injuries through to occupational violence, fatigue and psychological harm.
Direct digital access to duty holder obligations helps providers identify hazards earlier, apply proportionate controls and document compliance with confidence.
What the Code covers
- WHS duties held by employers, self-employed persons, officers and other duty holders
- Risk management steps — spotting hazards, assessing exposure, applying controls, then reviewing effectiveness
- Practical control measures for hazards common to the sector, including patient handling, aggression and infection prevention
- Consultation requirements plus psychosocial considerations such as workload, bullying and exposure to trauma
Developed with industry input
Created in collaboration with industry stakeholders and members of Safe Work Australia, the resource aims to make WHS information genuinely available to everyone employed throughout this fast-growing sector.
Model codes of practice are approved under the harmonised WHS framework and take legal effect once adopted by each state or territory regulator, so healthcare providers should confirm which version applies locally. Full details are available from Safe Work Australia, where the online model Code can be viewed in full.
Related resources for health and social assistance providers
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