NFF Calls for Common-Sense Farm Safety Laws

The National Farmers’ Federation has called for a practical and flexible approach to Australia’s Model Work Health and Safety laws, which are currently under national review.

The NFF said while reform is welcome, the framework must reflect the realities of family farms and seasonal workforces, rather than applying one-size-fits-all regulation.

NFF General Manager of Workplace Relations and Legal Affairs Michael Pyers said, “excessive paperwork and prescriptive rules will deter compliance, rather than improve safety.”

He said agriculture is one of the nation’s highest-risk sectors, but also one of the most diverse — spanning everything from small family operations to large supply chains.

“Achieving safer outcomes relies on regulation that is proportionate, evidence-based, and co-designed with industry,” Mr Pyers said.

He added that the NFF has made dozens of recommendations to Safe Work Australia to improve the framework.