15 October 2024

WorkSafe New Zealand, Mahi Haumaru Aotearoa, will open consultation for kaimahi on its organisational change proposal on 23 October.

The change proposal aims to deliver WorkSafe’s new strategy and increase its frontline services over time. “Our new strategy defines how we will undertake our role as Aotearoa New Zealand’s primary work health and safety regulator,” says Interim Chief Executive Kane Patena. “This involves a mix of enforcement, engagement and permitting activities, with a targeted focus on high-risk sectors and high-risk work activities.”

“To contribute to better work health and safety outcomes and help businesses manage risks we are proposing to increase our frontline services, which includes investing an additional $2.7 million annually into growing our inspectorate. In turn, we are proposing to simplify our structure, reduce some non-frontline roles, and ensure all roles are clearly linked to strategic delivery.”

Kane Patena says the strategic reset requires a shift in how roles and funding will be allocated in the proposed structure. WorkSafe’s allocated budget is less than last financial year due to the cessation of ACC and time-limited funding.

While the proposal aims to increase frontline services over time, there would be an overall reduction of approximately 20 roles. The proposal involves disestablishing 180 roles (of which approximately 55 - 60 are currently vacant) and establishing 140 new roles. Where possible, kaimahi will be redeployed into future roles. We are also proposing to simplify the structure, streamline our non-frontline functions and ensure all roles are clearly linked to strategic delivery.

Following pre-consultation engagement with the Public Service Association (PSA), the all-staff consultation period will begin on 23 October and run until 15 November 2024. All staff feedback will be considered, and decisions will be communicated with WorkSafe kaimahi first.