An overview to the right of entry by authorised representatives

What it contains

This factsheet covers:

• the role of an ARREO
• how an ARREO can enter a workplace
• what an ARREO can and cannot do upon entering a workplace
• the role of an employer and their employees during an ARREO visit
• the possible outcomes of an ARREO enquiry

This factsheet is available to download and can be presented upon lawful entry to a workplace. It should not be considered a legal document, or a substitute for the Victorian Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004.

The role of an authorised representatives of registered employee organisations (ARREOs)

ARREOs have a positive role to support employees in identifying and resolving health and safety issues. ARREOs can assist in creating a proactive and cooperative occupational health and safety culture within workplaces.

What is a suspected contravention?

A suspected contravention refers to a suspicion of a breach of the OHS Act which is reasonably held (i.e. a reasonable person would also suspect a breach)

Please note: there are different rules for suspected contraventions under various enterprise agreements. Only ARREOs of the employee organisation who are party to the enterprise agreement have a right of entry.