As noted in Sitrep 23/2025, the FBEU recently engaged Safe Work NSW on matters relating to FRNSW’s failure to coordinate meetings of the State Health & Safety Committee (SHSC), depriving members of any opportunity to discuss key safety issues, including that related to FRNSW’s proposed changes to safe and effective minimum crewing.
For almost a year, the FRNSW Health and Safety team have argued they are unable to resource SHSC meetings, which are legislated to occur quarterly, as a minimum. In a meeting between the parties this week, the regulator described these circumstances as inexcusable, issuing FRNSW with a provisional improvement notice (PIN). This is unprecedented and understood to be the first occasion the regulator has taken independent action against FRNSW.
The breach, while simple in nature, is far from trivial, indicative of FRNSW’s inability to grasp their most basic safety duties to workers.
While in force, a PIN must be displayed prominently at FRNSW workplaces. Members are encouraged to print and display a copy of the notice. A redacted version can be found here.
HEALTH AND SAFETY ORGANISING
Existing HSR’s are encouraged to enrol in the safety events detailed in last week’s Sitrep which include the following discussion hosted by the FBEU and the Safe Work NSW Stakeholder Engagement (Union and HSRs) team.
Roles and Powers of a HSR When: 6pm, Wednesday 13 August Where: FBEU offices Sydney and online – register here
This session is a valuable opportunity for HSRs to build capability, strengthen knowledge of your rights and powers, and better understand how SafeWork NSW can support you in your role. The session will cover:
Role and Function of Safe Work NSW
Importance of Consultation
Powers of SafeWork Inspectors
Statutory Requests for Assistance
Issue Resolution
Provisional Improvement Notices (PIN) Review
Cease Unsafe Work
Discriminatory Conduct and HSR Protections – Case Study
Participants will be provided with an HSR handbook and PIN guide.
