Greater focus on governance required in health and safety reforms

The Institute of Directors supports the intent of the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill but considers it does not sufficiently strengthen governance to improve outcomes. The IoD emphasises that effective health and safety performance depends on clear governance frameworks and that several key recommendations from earlier consultations and reform announcements are not fully reflected in the Bill.

While supporting provisions such as Approved Codes of Practice, clearer officer duties and role clarity in smaller organisations, the IoD highlights gaps for larger organisations where governance and management are separate. It proposes amendments to clarify board and management responsibilities, recognise collective board accountability, and better align health and safety obligations with core directors’ duties to avoid overly compliance-driven behaviour.

The IoD also calls for broader system improvements, including stronger regulatory capability, better cross-government coordination, and greater sharing of governance lessons. It raises concerns that aspects of the Bill, particularly Clause 12, may reduce clarity and weaken expectations. Overall, the IoD advocates for a more governance-focused, principles-based approach to achieve sustained improvements in health and safety outcomes.

Read the submission