New ACOP to clarify health and safety responsibilities on residential construction sites

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Hon Brooke van Velden has signed a new approved code of practice (ACOP) for residential construction, providing greater clarity about health and safety roles and responsibilities on site.

The ACOP, Identifying health and safety roles and responsibilities on a residential construction site, will come into effect on 1 April 2027, reflecting amendments to the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) that also come into effect from that date.

It provides practical, role-based information to help all those involved in residential construction to understand and meet their HSWA duties.

The ACOP focuses on situations where multiple businesses have overlapping health and safety duties. It explains the importance of consulting, cooperating and coordinating with others so risks are identified, managed and do not fall through the gaps.

The ACOP also includes real-life examples and flowcharts to help residential landowners, homeowners and occupiers understand what role they may have in different circumstances.

WorkSafe Chief Executive Sharon Thompson says the ACOP responds to a common challenge across the residential construction sector.

“Residential construction sites often involve multiple businesses and trades working at the same time, each with different responsibilities and different levels of influence and control.

“This ACOP provides practical information to help people understand who needs to do what, how to work together effectively, and how to manage risks before they cause harm.

“Importantly, this ACOP does not create any new duties. It helps clarify health and safety duties using examples that reflect the realities of residential construction work.