Business backs health and safety reforms despite Labour repeal threat

Business groups are backing amendments to health and safety legislation passed by the Government, despite Labour's pledge to repeal them if elected.

The changes are set to come into force in April 2027, but Labour says it will reverse the reforms if it wins the upcoming general election.

Business Canterbury chief executive Leeann Watson said the amendments responded to longstanding business community concerns over the past decade about costs, compliance burdens and complexity. Her organisation plans to continue pressing for the changes and to ensure the next government maintains them.

"The current system places too much emphasis on tick boxing [sic] and paperwork, rather than helping businesses focus on managing the risks that can cause serious harm," Watson said.

Watson said WorkSafe's processes and enforcement were inconsistent and had created an adversarial relationship with the business community that was not conducive to positive health and safety outcomes. "From April next year, businesses will now have much greater clarity on expectations and best practice," she said.