Australian Industry Group chief executive Heather Ridout. PHOTO: AiG

Queensland has become the first state to implement the harmonised national workplace safety laws.

The Work Health and Safety Bill passed through the Queensland Parliament last week, with similar bills expected to be tabled in all other states and territories and the Federal Parliament in the coming months.

Australian Industry Group chief executive Heather Ridout has reminded other states, such as New South Wales where the passage will require the support of minor parties, that any amendments that move away from the Model Law risk defeating the purpose of the whole exercise and should be strongly resisted.

"This is not a 'states’ rights' issue, it is a safety issue where every state is being asked to make a contribution. Removing confusing and contradictory differences between current state laws will allow workplaces to concentrate on working safely, rather than facing a complex legal nightmare. Harmonisation has been driven by industry, unions and safety professionals for this reason.

"Governments have also supported this principle and the remaining states are urged to follow Queensland's lead and complete the legislative task."