Compliance and enforcement

WorkSafe applies a strategy of ‘constructive compliance’ – a combination of incentives and deterrents – to improve workplace health and safety.

This strategy recognises that real and sustainable improvement in workplace health and safety requires active involvement from employers and employees in identifying hazards and controlling risks. It also recognises that enforcement action, including prosecution, may be taken whether or not a breach of Victoria’s OHS laws has resulted in death, injury, or disease.

More on compliance and enforcement

Note: Enforcement at mines is currently carried out by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI). The arrangement between DPI and WorkSafe on compliance and enforcement is set out in a Memorandum of Understanding. From January 2008, WorkSafe will take over the responsibility for the administration of OHS in Victoria’s resource industries (mining, quarrying, onshore petroleum production and geothermal energy).

View the Memorandum of Understanding