SafeWork NSW has been accused of being “timid” and “ineffectual”, with systemic cultural and operational issues. 

A chorus of voices - workers, inspectors, unions, and victims - is demanding a thorough overhaul of the organisation.

A series of submissions, yet to be made public but reportedly seen by the ABC, have been made to a review conducted by retired NSW Supreme Court judge, Robert McDougall. 

Commissioned by the previous state government, the report was submitted on December 15 to the Minns government and its release is allegedly imminent. 

They are expected to reveal an array of regulatory failures across industries, from construction to healthcare, leading to staff fatalities and significant injuries.

While the NSW government pushes to expedite affordable housing development, concerns are raised about workplace safety being sidelined. 

In Parliament, SafeWork NSW has faced allegations of bullying, ineffectiveness, and a culture of inaction. These include instances of delayed site inspections, even in cases leading to fatalities. 

The CFMEU describes SafeWork as “unwilling and absent”, evading scrutiny and transparency.

Nurses and tradies are among the most affected, with rising injury rates in healthcare and social assistance sectors. 

SafeWork's own submission, contrasting sharply with others, touts its handling of matters including the silicosis crisis as successful. However, it acknowledges the need for improvements in employee engagement and addressing bullying claims.

As the McDougall report's recommendations loom, the spotlight is on the Minns government to initiate profound changes.