WorkSafe Investigations.

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Guidance through safety incidents, regulator investigations and workplace health and safety obligations.

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When WorkSafe becomes involved.

A WorkSafe investigation can arise with little warning. It may follow a workplace incident, a complaint, or a routine inspection. Once the regulator is involved, the process becomes formal and the consequences can be significant.

You may be required to provide documents, attend interviews or respond to notices within strict timeframes. In more serious cases, the matter may lead to enforcement action or prosecution under workplace health and safety laws.

We work with businesses across Western Australia to respond to WorkSafe involvement from the outset. That includes helping you understand the nature of the investigation, your legal obligations and how to approach each stage of the process.

Are you seeking urgent support?

When legal issues feel pressing, timely help matters. Contact us today to see how we can assist.

Responding to investigations and notices.

Early decisions can shape how a matter progresses. The way information is provided, how communication with the regulator is handled and the steps taken internally all carry weight.

We assist with:

responding to improvement and prohibition notices
preparing for and attending interviews with inspectors
managing requests for documents and information
advising on incident reporting obligations
engaging with WorkSafe on your behalf

Our role is to ensure your response is considered, consistent and aligned with your legal position, while limiting disruption to your operations where possible.

Image Shows: Corporate businessman reviewing documentation with open laptop

Managing enforcement action and prosecutions.

Where breaches are alleged, WorkSafe may take further action. This can include issuing notices, enforceable undertakings or commencing prosecution proceedings.

We represent clients in negotiations with regulators and, where required, in court proceedings. This includes preparing your defence, managing evidence and advocating for an outcome that reflects the circumstances of the matter.

If penalties cannot be avoided, we focus on reducing their impact on your business, including financial, operational and reputational consequences.

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Strengthening your safety framework.

An investigation often highlights broader issues within workplace systems. Addressing those issues is critical to reducing future risk.

We assist with reviewing and improving:

  • workplace health and safety policies and procedures
  • training and supervision practices
  • incident reporting and record keeping systems
  • risk assessments and hazard management processes

Our advice is practical and grounded in how your business operates, so changes can be implemented effectively rather than sitting on paper.

Ongoing support in workplace health and safety

Ongoing support

WorkSafe matters do not end when an investigation closes. Ongoing compliance with workplace health and safety laws remains essential.

We provide continued support to help you meet your obligations, respond to future issues and maintain systems that are fit for purpose. Where needed, we also work alongside your internal teams and external advisers to ensure a coordinated approach.

Experienced WorkSafe and WHS lawyers in Perth

We advise businesses on workplace health and safety matters, including WorkSafe investigations, compliance and enforcement action. Our focus is on clear guidance that helps you respond appropriately and move forward with confidence.

FAQ.

Common questions we hear.

  • A WorkSafe investigation can be triggered by a workplace incident, injury or fatality, a complaint from an employee or third party, or a routine inspection. In some cases, regulators may also investigate based on industry-wide concerns or reported risks.

  • WorkSafe inspectors can issue notices requiring action. Common types include improvement notices (to fix a safety issue) and prohibition notices (to stop unsafe work immediately). These notices are legally binding and must be addressed within the specified timeframe.

  • Yes. Businesses are generally required to cooperate with inspectors, including providing access to the workplace, documents and relevant information. It is important to understand your obligations before responding, as how information is provided can affect the outcome.

  • Yes. If WorkSafe believes there has been a breach of workplace health and safety laws, it may commence prosecution proceedings. Penalties can include significant fines and, in serious cases, other enforcement action.

  • You should seek advice early before responding in detail. It is important to understand the nature of the investigation, preserve relevant records and ensure any communication with the regulator is accurate and considered.

  • Maintaining clear safety policies, regular training, proper supervision and accurate incident reporting systems can reduce risk. Periodic reviews of your workplace health and safety processes also help ensure they remain effective and compliant.

Meet our dedicated Employment Team.

HHG Legal Group is one of Perth’s longest established law firms, with over 100 years of experience in Western Australia. We provide advice that reflects both the legal framework and the practical realities of managing people within a business.

Local expertise. Multiple locations.

Our team of experienced lawyers operates from five locations across Perth and regional Western Australia. We’re local people who understand the area, backed by the expertise of one of WA’s most established firms. We take the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and guide you openly, providing reliable representation and quality advice at every step. Because every client deserves our full attention.

Office Locations
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The road to resolution.

We believe in a clear path forward. From our first conversation, we break things into manageable steps, keep you informed and work steadily toward a fair outcome, until we reach the resolution you’re seeking.

  • Consultation

    We listen to your situation and outline your options.
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  • Strategy

    We create a tailored plan to protect your interests.

  • Action

    We prepare documents, negotiate, or represent you.

  • Resolution

    We work toward the best possible outcome for you.

Tell us what you need

Every situation is different. Whether you’re exploring options or ready to move forward, we’re here to listen and find the right solution.

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