11 November 2026
More than $12 million from South Australian businesses has gone into workplace safety initiatives over the past decade through Enforceable Undertakings.
An Enforceable Undertaking (EU) is an alternative to court-imposed penalties with a higher expected investment into safety initiatives for the workplace, industry and community. SafeWork SA has shared new information on EUs – including what they are, who can apply, how to apply, and what’s included in accepted EUs.
Enforceable Undertakings may be considered for Category 2 or 3 offences and are an important regulatory enforcement mechanism under the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA). Successful EUs provide broad, lasting benefits through education, safety improvements and prevention initiatives. Duty holders must make tangible investments, maintain long-term engagement with the WHS Regulator and commit to expenditure expected to exceed the fine a court would impose.
A new SafeWork SA initiative also provides ideas for applicants seeking assistance with suitable Enforceable Undertaking activities which reflect the priorities of the WHS Regulator – see Suitable EU activities.
More than $12 million has beenspent by applicants on EUs in South Australia since 2015. Nationally, about $55 million has been spent since 2021. Some activities undertaken through accepted EUs include:
- external worksite reviews
- safety improvements on plant and equipment
- re-inductions and training on workplace changes
- employment hours for WHS consultants and professionals
- new technology such as devices to introduce electronic SWMS
- training to expand capabilities in the workplace as well as the industry
- industry education presentations, forums and videos
- community sponsorships to promote safety in the community.
These outcomes reflect SafeWork SA’s commitment to achieving meaningful health and safety improvements that provide lasting benefits beyond the immediate workplace. EUs require significant investment in risk management, education, and industry-wide safety initiatives aimed at preventing future harm and are monitored closely for compliance with all aspects of the EU agreement.
EUs are most suited to duty holders who show active engagement, commitment and understanding of the WHS principles that underpin the proposed activities.
A new case study featuring successful applicant Ruediger Constructions Pty Ltd linked to the website highlights the benefits and lessons associated with EUs as a regulatory and enforcement outcome.
The EU website provides details of matters resolved through enforceable undertakings under the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA) consisting of all accepted EUs and their Reasons for Decision.
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