Chris Wiltshire, CEO of Master Landscapers of South Australia, highlights a regulatory change in safety standards for the South Australian landscaping sector.
Businesses operating in the construction and landscaping sectors should be aware of an important change in the regulation relating to working at heights that took effect on July 1, 2026. The update lowers the threshold for what is considered high-risk construction work, requiring greater diligence in safety planning and documentation.
Requirements
Until June 30, 2026, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) was required in South Australia when work was undertaken at a height of three metres or more from the level below. Since July 1, 2026, that threshold has been reduced to two metres, bringing South Australia into alignment with national workplace safety standards.
A SWMS is a document that identifies high-risk activities, outlines potential hazards, and details the control measures required to carry out work safely. For any work classified as high risk, a Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU) is legally required to ensure a SWMS is completed and implemented prior to the commencement of works. Templates and guidance materials are available through SafeWork SA.
It is important to note that not all height-related requirements are changing. The definition of high-risk construction work for excavations remains unchanged, with a SWMS still required for trenches or shafts where there is a cut into the ground of 1.5 metres or greater.
Be proactive
While the change from three metres to two metres may appear minor, it broadens the range of tasks captured under high-risk construction work. Activities such as working on low roofs, retaining walls, or elevated structures may now require formal risk assessments and documentation.
In preparation, businesses should take steps to review and update their existing safety procedures. This includes auditing current work practices, updating SWMS templates, and ensuring supervisors and workers are appropriately trained in their obligations. Early preparation will not only support compliance, but will also strengthen overall workplace safety outcomes.
By acting now, businesses can ensure they are positioned to meet the new requirements and continue to deliver projects safely and efficiently.
If you would like to know more about safety requirements, make enquiries through the Master landscapers of South Australia email, ceo@landscapesa.com.au. For general information and updates, visit landscapesa.com.au.
