A coronial inquest into a double fatality involving methamphetamine, and related proceedings against three companies and six individuals, have sent strong reminders on both the reach of chain-of-responsibility laws in the heavy vehicle sector and the fact that they're being policed.
Uber and other gig economy companies will be forced to pay workers' comp premiums under a Queensland plan, while the State Government has revealed the average premium rate for 2019-20.
Duty holders that engage in reckless conduct during the manufacture, transport or storage of dangerous goods could be fined $6.4 million or jailed for 10 years, under new Victorian laws. The move comes after firefighters called for tougher penalties and a "pro-charge" policy to crack down on the "stash and burn business model" in the waste industry.
> Should HSRs' offshore powers be aligned with WHS Act? > Manager charged over belittling language and other bullying; and > Major employer and others charged with multiple WHS breaches.
> Australia transitioning to new edition of GHS; > CSIRO charged with four category 2 WHS breaches after explosion; > Employer charged with failing to ensure the safety of at-risk patient; and > Labour-hire scheme with WHS test revived in SA.
A regulator has defended its decision to accept WHS enforceable undertakings from two PCBUs in lieu of prosecution after a fuel fire at a public event, despite opposition from a number of the victims.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has declared that Uber Australia Pty Ltd and its drivers do not have an "employment relationship", which suggests the business and similar gig economy companies won't be compelled to provide WHS or workers' comp protections without legislative change.
An ASX-listed PCBU accused of failing to eliminate or minimise traffic risks, in the lead up to a fatality, has been permitted to enter a $1.5 million enforceable undertaking in lieu of prosecution for category 2 WHS breaches.
