When you need a Safe Work Method Statement in Victoria, what a compliant one contains, and who enforces it. Plain English, from people who write them for a living.
Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 (Vic), a SWMS must be prepared before any high risk construction work (HRCW) starts. The 18 HRCW activities include work involving: a risk of a person falling more than 2 metres; work on or near energised electrical installations; structural alterations requiring temporary support; work in or near excavations deeper than 1.5 metres; tilt-up or precast concrete elements; work on or near pressurised gas mains, chemical/fuel lines, or telecommunications towers; demolition of load-bearing structures; disturbing asbestos; work in or near confined spaces, shafts or tunnels; use of explosives; work near traffic corridors or water with drowning risk; and diving work.
IMPORTANT: Victoria has NOT adopted the model WHS laws - the OHS Act and Regulations use different terminology, and SWMS requirements sit in the OHS Regulations 2017 for high risk construction work. The practical content of a good SWMS is near-identical.
Identify the HRCW · describe the hazards and risks · describe the control measures (following the hierarchy of controls) · describe how controls are implemented, monitored and reviewed · be written in consultation with the workers doing the work · be available and followed on site · be reviewed when things change. The full breakdown: What goes in a SWMS →
WorkSafe Victoria · 13 23 60. They can request your SWMS on the spot; work can be stopped until an adequate SWMS exists. Verify current contact details on the regulator's website. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Grab the free Obras SWMS sample (editable Word + PDF, VIC version included) or browse the Australia-wide SWMS library - every one QR-verified, editable, and written for Australian sites.
