Model WHS Laws

We created the model WHS laws in 2011.

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WHS laws in your jurisdiction

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We publish a wide range of resources covering many work health and safety topics.

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Read our Codes of Practice

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Safe Work Australia is currently undertaking public consultation on options to improve quad bike safety in the workplace. Visit our Consultation Hub for more information and to share your thoughts.

WHS duties

Everyone in the workplace has WHS duties under the model WHS Act.  

You have specific duties if you are: 

  • a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU)  
  • a person with management or control of powered mobile plant at a workplace, or
  • a designer, manufacturer, importer, supplier and installer of plant, substances or structures. 

As a PCBU, you must, so far as is reasonably practicable:  

  • ensure the health and safety of workers and others at your workplace  
  • consult with workers who carry out work for the business or undertaking and who are (or are likely to be) directly affected by a health and safety matter, and  
  • consult, cooperate and coordinate activities with all other relevant duty holders.  

The model WHS Regulations impose a duty on the person with management or control of powered mobile plant at a workplace, such as quad bikes, to manage risks to health and safety for workers using the plant. There are also duties for persons with management or control of powered plant to implement specific control measures.


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Further Advice

SWA is not a regulator and cannot advise you about WHS issues in the workplace. If you need help please contact your state or territory work health and safety authority.

Some jurisdictions may offer rebates to help with the costs of improved quad bike safety. Check with your WHS regulator to see what you may be eligible for.