What changed for SWMS documents
The rule changes that affect SWMS documents in Australia, newest first, each with the official source. Our examples and templates are updated for every change listed here.
South Australia: high risk falls threshold drops to 2 metres
Work where a person could fall more than 2 metres is now high risk construction work in SA (it was 3 metres), so a SWMS is needed from 2 metres. The 2 metre rule now applies in every state.
Affects: Roofing, scaffolding, carpentry and any work at height in SA.
Source: SafeWork SA: WHS (High Risk Construction Work) Amendment Regulations 2025
Northern Territory: construction project threshold rises to $1,000,000
A construction project, which needs a principal contractor and a WHS management plan, now starts at $1,000,000 in the NT, up from $500,000.
Affects: Who counts as the principal contractor on NT jobs.
Source: NT Legislation: WHS (National Uniform Legislation) Amendment Regulations 2026
New South Wales: Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025 replaces the 2017 Regulation
NSW SWMS should cite the WHS Regulation 2025. Its provisions are called sections, not clauses.
Affects: The legal basis line on every NSW SWMS.
Source: NSW Legislation: Work Health and Safety Regulation 2025