In a landmark move to strengthen workplace protections, the Minns Labor Government has passed sweeping reforms that will impact over four million workers across New South Wales. These changes, enacted through the Industrial Relations and Other Legislation Amendment (Workplace Protections) Act 2025, mark a significant shift toward safer, fairer, and more inclusive workplaces.
Key Reforms Enhancing Worker Protections
1. Workplace Safety and Health
- Mandatory compliance with approved Codes of Practice, ensuring workplaces meet or exceed safety standards.
- Expanded powers for unions and entry permit holders to conduct safety inspections, including testing for hazardous substances like silica.
- Clarified procedures for prosecuting breaches of work health and safety laws, empowering unions to take legal action when necessary.
2. Gender Equality and Anti-Harassment Measures
- Gender equality and the elimination of workplace bullying and sexual harassment are now explicit objectives of the Industrial Relations Act.
- A new jurisdiction within the NSW Industrial Relations Commission (IRC) offers a “one-stop shop” for public sector employees to lodge complaints, with remedies including public apologies, employer action orders, and damages up to $100,000.
3. Fair Compensation and Wage Theft Prevention
- The IRC’s small claims cap has increased from $20,000 to $100,000, aligning with the Fair Work Act and enabling fairer compensation for underpaid workers.
4. Dispute Resolution and Transparency
- Enhanced powers for the IRC to resolve industrial disputes and facilitate return-to-work processes for injured employees.
- Unresolved work health and safety disputes can now be independently reviewed by the IRC, promoting transparency and accountability.
Structural and Governance Changes
- SafeWork NSW has been re-established as an independent regulator, operating separately from the Department of Customer Service.
- The Industrial Court of NSW has been reinstated, reinforcing the state’s commitment to robust workplace governance.
What This Means for Employers and Workers
For employers, these reforms signal a need to reassess compliance strategies, workplace culture, and dispute resolution mechanisms. For workers, they offer stronger protections, clearer pathways for justice, and a renewed focus on safety and dignity at work.
ABILITY GROUP supports these reforms and encourages all businesses to stay informed and proactive. A safer, fairer workplace isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s a competitive advantage.
Source: NSW Government
Title: Minns Labor Government passes major reforms to protect workers
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