New Model Code of Practice: Healthcare and Social Assistance Industry

Released in early July, Safe Work Australia have launched a new Code of Practice, which can be explored here: Model Code of Practice: Healthcare and Social Assistance Industry.

Overview

The Model Code of Practice: Healthcare and Social Assistance Industry is a national guide designed to help employers and duty holders in the sector meet their Work Health and Safety (WHS) obligations.

It provides practical strategies to manage risks across a wide range of healthcare and social assistance settings.

Why It Matters

• The healthcare and social assistance industry:
  • Employs over 2 million workers, making it Australia’s largest industry.
  • Has the highest rate of work-related injuries and a workers’ compensation claim rate more than twice the national average.
• Until now, there was no consolidated WHS guidance tailored specifically to this sector.

Key Features

• Scope: Covers hospitals, aged care, disability support, and in-home care settings.
• Hazards Addressed:
  • Musculoskeletal disorders and body stressing
  • Mental stress and psychosocial hazards
  • Slips, trips, and falls
  • Exposure to infectious diseases
  • Work-related violence and aggression.
• Risk Management:
  • Emphasises identifying, assessing, and controlling risks
  • Encourages consultation with workers and health and safety representatives.
• Settings:
  • Includes guidance for both facility-based and home-based care environments.

Collaborative Development

• The New Model Code of Practice has been developed in consultation with:
  • Industry stakeholders
  • Union representatives
  • Safe Work Australia Members.

What’s Next

• In 2026, Safe Work Australia will release an interactive web version of the Model Code of Practice, including:
  • Case studies
  • Scenario-based learning
  • Practical tools for implementation.

Key Employer Actions from the Code

1. Risk Management Framework

• Identify and assess hazards (e.g. manual tasks, fatigue, psychosocial risks)
• Implement controls using the hierarchy of control
• Review effectiveness regularly and update as needed.

2. Psychosocial Hazard Controls

• Address risks like stress, aggression, and harassment
• Develop a psychosocial risk register
• Provide access to support services (e.g. EAP, peer support).

3. Manual Handling & Ergonomics

• Train staff in safe handling techniques
• Use mechanical aids and adjust workstations
• Conduct regular ergonomic assessments.

4. Violence and Aggression Prevention

• Establish zero-tolerance policies
• Train staff in de-escalation and incident response
• Install security measures where appropriate.

5. Biological & Chemical Safety

• Implement infection control protocols
• Provide PPE and training on hazardous substances
• Maintain up-to-date Safety Data Sheets (SDS).

6. Work Environment Safety

• Minimise slips, trips, and falls
• Ensure adequate lighting, ventilation, and hygiene
• Maintain equipment and facilities.

7. Consultation & Coordination

• Engage workers in WHS decisions
• Coordinate with other PCBUs in shared workplaces
• Document consultation processes.

8. Incident Notification & Emergency Planning

• Establish clear reporting procedures
• Train staff in emergency response
• Notify SafeWork NSW of notifiable incidents.

Strategic Tips for Implementation

• Embed WHS into onboarding and ongoing training.
• Use case studies and examples from the Model Code of Practice to guide practice.
• Monitor emerging risks and regulatory updates.
• Foster a culture where worker safety is valued as highly as client care.