Government agrees to setting up a 'working hours' code of practice

3/5/04
In an Australian first, the Gallop Government will establish a new State-wide code of practice to set limits on working hours.
Consumer and Employment Protection Minister John Kobelke said Western Australia had a higher proportion of people working extended hours than other States and was now leading the nation by moving to implement the code in all workplaces.
"Long working hours can adversely affect workers, in terms of their safety and health," Mr Kobelke said.
The Minister said the new code should also set limits on the number of sequential night shifts and the number and length of rest breaks for workers.
"Cabinet has accepted the recommendation of the majority of the review panel, formed last year to examine extended working hours," he said.
"The independent panel concluded that a code of practice would provide much needed guidance for employers."
Mr Kobelke said the review panel had received more than 70 written submissions and met with more than 60 people, including workers and employers from both the public and private sectors covering a broad cross-section of industries.
Employer and employee organisations also participated in the review process.
The Minister said the new working hours code should be finalised by the middle of next year and was to be developed by the Commission for Occupational Safety and Health.
"A code will help guide industry and workers on the management of risks associated with extended working hours and it will go through a draft stage that would allow more public comment," he said.
"Extended hours often impact negatively on family and social relationships and balance between work and life is an important community issue.
"The commission will consider standards, recommended by the review panel and ensure industry groups, unions, employers and the public are fully consulted in the development of the proposed working hours code."
A copy of the report on the Extended Working Hours Review is available online at http://www.ministers.wa.gov.au/kobelke
Minister's Office - 9222 9211