Feedback summary

We asked

We developed a draft policy framework setting out proposed revisions to the offshore oil and gas safety regime.

We asked for your views on the proposals in the draft policy framework.

To develop the draft policy framework, we considered:

  • submissions received in response to our Offshore Oil and Gas Safety Review discussion paper

  • feedback from members of the offshore workforce collected through an online survey

  • the recommendations of the Senate Inquiry into the work health and safety of workers in the offshore petroleum industry, held in 2018.

We also tested the offshore safety framework for alignment, where appropriate, with other work health and safety laws.

You said

We received 10 submissions on the draft policy framework. Three respondents provided confidential submissions and we published the remaining 7.

The submissions broadly supported the continuation of an objective-based offshore regulatory regime. Overall they supported the policy proposals in the draft framework.

Several submissions suggestions changes and additional policy measures. Some were also seeking clarification on the details of policy measures proposed.

We did

Responses from the public helped us revise and finalise the policy framework.

We published the final Offshore Oil and Gas Safety Review policy framework.

The public will be able to comment on draft legislative amendments in late 2021.

Overview

We are reviewing the regulatory regime for the safety of workers in the offshore oil and gas sector as part of our commitment to continuous regulatory improvement. Our Offshore Oil and Gas Safety Review aims to ensure the regime is fit-for-purpose, up-to-date and reflects leading practice.

This evidence-based review is looking at the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (Safety) Regulations 2009 and Schedule 3 (Occupational Health and Safety) of the Offshore Petroleum and Greenhouse Gas Storage (OPGGS) Act 2006. It can also consider any other matters under the OPGGS Act necessary for a comprehensive review of the offshore safety regime.

Throughout the review we are consulting with:

  • industry

  • unions

  • the offshore workforce

  • the Australian Government

  • state and territory governments.

Consultation documents

Timeline

Contact
Environment Safety and Security Section
OffshoreRegulations@industry.gov.au