Workplace noise remains one of Australia’s most widespread and preventable occupational hazards. Despite long standing guidance, many workplaces continue to expose workers to hazardous noise levels that create a real risk of hearing damage.

Regulators are now tightening enforcement of noise risk management, including new requirements for audiometric testing in NSW (effective 1 January 2024) and QLD (effective 29 July 2025).

The 2026 Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) reforms reach across many workplaces; they’re reshaping occupational safety and health expectations across Australian industry.
From 1 December 2026, Australia’s new Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) will replace the existing Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) issued by Safe Work Australia.

When Hearing Protection Is Required, Audiometric Testing Must Be Ongoing

Where hearing protection is required in the workplace, audiometric testing is an ongoing obligation under OHS and WHS Noise Regulations. For many organisations, this means hearing tests are not a one-off activity, but a recurring part of managing noise exposure and protecting worker health.

Detailed Guidance, Government Advice and How JTA Can Support You

The recent coloured sand recall has become a major issue in Australia. This includes decorative sand, magnetic sand, and kinetic sand products that contain asbestos. It is the largest contamination problem for children's products since the NSW mulch incident.

These products were commonly used across early learning, schools and community programs, and many products were sold between 2020 and 2025.

From December 2026, new workplace exposure limits (WELs) will apply to flour dust, introducing one of the most significant health and safety changes for food manufacturers in years.

From 1 December 2026, Australia’s Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) will replace the old Workplace Exposure Standards (WES) under updates announced by Safe Work Australia.