Practical Changes Introduced For Laboratory SafetyHon Brooke van VeldenMinister for Workplace Relations and Safety30 July 2026Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says changes to hazardous substances regulations coming into effect today will provide regulatory relief and ensure laboratory safety requirements better reflect the realities of working in labs. “I’m making practical changes to health and safety regulations that will maintain safety in laboratories while reducing unnecessary compliance costs,” says Ms van Velden. “In 2017, laboratories became subject to the same regulatory requirements as industrial operations that use hazardous substances. “These changes will support science, research and innovation while maintaining strong health and safety protections,” says Ms van Velden. Notes:These changes have been made through the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Amendment Regulations 2026.