Starting Monday, 4 May, Commonwealth employees have new safety protections, through Commonwealth Workplace Protection Orders (CWPO), aimed at deterring acts of violence and other harmful behaviours by members of the public towards workers.
The CWPO framework empowers courts to issue enforceable orders aimed at preventing harm and safeguarding the safety and wellbeing of Commonwealth employees and the public accessing government services.
The introduction of CWPOs should complement other workplace safety measures to ensure frontline staff can perform their duties without fear of aggression or violence.
Depending on the severity of the behaviour, a CWPO can restrict individuals from approaching or contacting workers and workplaces, much like a restraining order.
Agencies must ensure individuals subject to an order can still access essential government services. This may be, for example, via phone or remote appointments.
Orders can apply to Commonwealth workplaces including offices, service centres, mobile service points and remote work locations. Breaching a CWPO is a criminal offence.
CPSU members have access to a range of supporting materials and guidance to assist in representing your, or other members' concerns. You can download a fact sheet on CWPOs here.
If you have concerns about any safety matters in your workplace, and would like assistance or advice, you can always speak to your organiser, call our Member Service Centre on 1300 137 636 or email the CPSU Work Health and Safety team at [email protected]
