Building Commission NSW and SafeWork NSW Launch Construction Blitz in the Hunter Region

The following is an abridgement of an article originally published by SafeWork NSW.

Campaign Overview

Building Commission NSW and SafeWork NSW are undertaking a three-day campaign from 16 to 18 March 2026 in the Hunter Region to inspect construction sites and engage with the local community, industry, and government. The region was selected for the first major campaign of the year due to its active construction sector, which comprises approximately 700 active sites and 17,000 licence holders.

Inspection Focus Areas

Building Commission NSW inspectors will visit apartment buildings and freestanding homes in Singleton, Maitland, and Newcastle to check for defective work, proper signage, and insurance compliance. SafeWork NSW inspectors will focus on preventing falls from heights and falling objects, ensuring the safe operation of machinery, verifying high-risk work licences, and addressing psychological health and safety.

Previous Enforcement Outcomes

During a previous compliance blitz in the Hunter Region last year, SafeWork NSW visited 13 sites and issued 17 improvement notices, nine prohibition notices, and three penalty notices totalling $13,500. A separate October blitz by Building Commission NSW across 41 sites resulted in 22 penalty infringement notices, nine written direction notices, and 13 rectification orders.

Community and Educational Engagement

The agencies will hold meetings with the Singleton, Upper Hunter Shire, and Muswellbrook Shire councils, alongside community pop-up events in Maitland and Charlestown. Building Commission NSW will also visit local high schools, TAFE NSW campuses, and the University of Newcastle to discuss compliance and career pathways with students.

Official Comments

NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard stated, "With the Hunter expected to experience considerable population growth over the next 20 years, it’s more important than ever to ensure we have a robust and capable building industry that can support new and established residents."

SafeWork Commissioner Janet Schorer stated, "SafeWork NSW's proactive visits to construction sites play an important role in reducing the number of serious incidents by preventing harm, strengthening compliance and sharing practical safety tools."