The obligation
Section 26A of the WHS Act 2011 (NSW) is now in force. Approved Codes of Practice are enforceable minimum standards; PCBUs must comply or demonstrate equivalent/higher controls.
From 1 July 2026, s 26A of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW) — inserted by the Industrial Relations and Other Legislation Amendment (Workplace Protections) Act 2025 — is in effect. Approved Codes of Practice are no longer guidance only; they are legally enforceable minimum standards. PCBUs must either comply with each relevant Code of Practice or implement alternative control measures achieving an equivalent or higher WHS standard.
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- What
- Section 26A of the WHS Act 2011 (NSW) is now in force. Approved Codes of Practice are enforceable minimum standards; PCBUs must comply or demonstrate equivalent/higher controls.
- Source
- legislation.nsw.gov.au
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codes of practice
enforceable
s26A
PCBU
SafeWork NSW
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Frequently asked questions
Which WHS law does this come from?
Codes of Practice Become Legally Enforceable from 1 July 2026 (s 26A WHS Act) is a WHS requirement set out in Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 (NSW). It is made under Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW). The relevant provision is Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 (NSW) > Codes of Practice.
What does this WHS obligation require?
Codes of Practice Become Legally Enforceable from 1 July 2026 (s 26A WHS Act) is a WHS obligation under Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 (NSW). In short, Section 26A of the WHS Act 2011 (NSW) is now in force. Approved Codes of Practice are enforceable minimum standards; PCBUs must comply or demonstrate equivalent/higher controls.
What changed recently?
Codes of Practice Become Legally Enforceable from 1 July 2026 (s 26A WHS Act) was last updated on 31 July 2026.
