Amid creating hundreds of new jobs, WorkSafe NZ to slash 180 employees

WorkSafe New Zealand is proposing a major restructure for the second time in a year, planning to eliminate 180 roles as it looks to refocus resources towards frontline services. This move follows a previous reduction in November 2023, when 113 jobs were cut. The latest restructuring could result in a net loss of 40 positions, despite the creation of 140 new roles intended to strengthen core operational areas.

In a statement released by WorkSafe, the health and safety regulator announced the commencement of consultation on the proposed changes, with an official spokesperson confirming that feedback from staff would be taken into account. The organization emphasized that these changes are part of a broader strategic plan aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing the agency's frontline presence.

“The proposal is about delivering WorkSafe’s new strategy and increasing its frontline services over time. In turn, we are proposing to simplify our structure, reduce some non-frontline roles, and ensure all roles are clearly linked to strategic delivery,” a WorkSafe spokesperson said.

WorkSafe’s latest round of job cuts is designed to prioritize resources where they are needed most — on the front lines. By creating 140 new roles, the agency aims to reinforce teams that directly engage with health and safety practices across New Zealand workplaces. This focus on frontline roles is part of the regulator's commitment to improving health and safety outcomes in industries where risks are highest.

However, while the agency’s goal is to boost operational efficiency, the plan has raised concerns among unions and employee representatives. The Public Service Association (PSA), which represents a large number of public sector workers, has been vocal in its opposition to the proposed cuts, particularly for positions that provide crucial support to frontline operations.

The PSA has expressed concern that the job losses will disproportionately affect key advisory and specialist roles. According to PSA Secretary Duane Leo, the cuts will impact health specialists, advisors, and evaluators whose work supports WorkSafe inspectors in enforcing safety regulations and ensuring compliance.

“The jobs proposed to be lost are those of health specialists, advisors, researchers, and legal kaimahi who support WorkSafe inspectors and whose role is to educate businesses, provide assessment support to workplaces, and protect workers from poor health and safety practices,” Leo said. He criticized the restructuring plan as flawed and warned that it could weaken WorkSafe's capacity to deliver its mandate effectively.

Leo argued that while the focus on frontline services is commendable, cutting support roles could undermine the inspectors who rely on these specialists for expertise and guidance.

Despite concerns over job losses, WorkSafe has clarified that the restructuring is not part of any government-imposed cost-saving measures. The agency confirmed that it had not been directed to contribute to any fiscal tightening initiatives but emphasized the need to remain within its allocated budget.

WorkSafe’s financial constraints have been a recurring theme in recent years, especially as the agency adapts to changes in the workplace, including the shift towards remote work. The reduction of desk space at WorkSafe's Wellington office in December 2023, partly due to the increased prevalence of working from home, reflected these broader changes.

The restructuring is part of WorkSafe’s ongoing efforts to align its operations with its strategic objectives while staying within its financial limitations. By streamlining non-frontline functions and enhancing key operational roles, the agency hopes to maintain efficiency without compromising on service delivery.