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.

WorkSafe inspectors have the primary role of targeting unsafe workplace activity, enforcing compliance with health and safety laws, and providing guidance and advice on how to comply with those laws.

Further information on workplace inspections and WorkSafe’s enforcement policy is available through the WorkSafe Advisory Service (1800 136 089) or at www.worksafe.vic.gov.au