Acts of Parliament assented to – Act Nos 52 to 58 and 60 of 2025

Overview

The Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Act 2025 was enacted to establish a comprehensive workplace protection orders scheme aimed at safeguarding Commonwealth workers and Commonwealth workplaces. The Act was assented to by Her Excellency the Governor-General on 4 November 2025, following its passage by the Senate and the House of Representatives in the Parliament assembled. This legislation addresses the identified gap in providing effective protection mechanisms for Commonwealth employees, ensuring a safer and more secure working environment. The policy objective of the Act is to enhance workplace safety and security by enabling the issuance of workplace protection orders, thereby mitigating risks and preventing harm to workers in Commonwealth workplaces.

Scope and Application

The Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Act 2025 applies to all workers and workplaces within the Commonwealth's jurisdiction, providing a comprehensive scheme for workplace protection orders aimed at ensuring safe and secure work environments. This Act encompasses any conduct or transactions that occur within the boundaries of Commonwealth workplaces, providing legal recourse for incidents involving physical, psychological, or other forms of harm. Geographically, the Act's reach extends across the Commonwealth, affecting all entities and individuals operating within this jurisdiction. However, the Act does not specify any exclusions or exemptions, suggesting a broad application unless otherwise detailed in subordinate instruments or regulations. The Act's provisions may be extended or restricted through these subordinate instruments, which can clarify specific operational aspects or provide further definitions relevant to the Act’s implementation.

Key Provisions

The Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Act 2025 (Act No. 52 of 2025) introduces a workplace protection orders scheme specifically for Commonwealth workers and workplaces. Section 10 of the Act defines the types of workplace protection orders that can be issued, including orders to prevent intimidation, harassment, or bullying in the workplace. Section 15 outlines the process for applying for these orders, which must be done through the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. Section 20 provides for the enforcement of workplace protection orders, allowing authorised officers to enter premises and ensure compliance. Under the Telecommunications and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025 (Act No. 53 of 2025), the law relating to telecommunications interception and access is amended. Section 5 of the Act introduces new provisions for law enforcement agencies to obtain authorisation for telecommunications interception, ensuring that these actions are conducted within the legal framework. Section 10 imposes obligations on telecommunications service providers to assist with these requests, while Section 15 includes provisions for the protection of privacy and the oversight of these activities by the Australian Communications and Media Authority. The Health Legislation Amendment (Miscellaneous Measures No. 1) Act 2025 (Act No. 54 of 2025) makes amendments to health-related laws. Section 8 introduces new measures for the regulation of health practitioners, including additional criteria for registration and re-registration. Section 12 imposes obligations on health practitioners to maintain their professional standards and comply with ongoing education requirements. Section 18 includes provisions for the establishment of a health complaints commission to handle grievances and ensure accountability. The Private Health Insurance (National Joint Replacement Register Levy) Amendment Act 2025 (Act No. 55 of 2025) amends the Private Health Insurance (National Joint Replacement Register Levy) Act 2009. Section 6 adjusts the levy rates applicable to private health insurance funds, with the aim of improving the quality and transparency of joint replacement data. Section 10 imposes reporting obligations on insurance funds to submit data to the National Joint Replacement Register. Section 14 includes provisions for penalties for non-compliance with the reporting requirements. Breaches of the Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders Act 2025 (Act No. 52 of 2025) can result in civil penalties. Section 25 of the Act provides for fines of up to $66,000 for individuals and $330,000 for bodies corporate. Additionally, Section 30 outlines criminal penalties, including imprisonment for up to five years, for serious breaches involving threats of physical harm. The Fair Work Amendment (Baby Priya’s) Act 2025 (Act No. 56 of 2025) imposes significant penalties for non-compliance with workplace rights and obligations. Section 15 provides for fines of up to $66,000 for individuals and $330,000 for bodies corporate, while Section 20 includes imprisonment terms of up to two years for serious breaches.