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When LHA identifies non-compliance, it acts quickly to minimise the risk of ongoing worker exploitation and ensure the integrity of the industry.

Last month, VCAT dismissed a large construction provider’s application to continue operating while it appealed LHA’s decision to cancel their licence.

LHA argued that allowing the company to operate until its appeal was heard posed an unacceptable risk to the integrity and transparency of the industry, and this decision supports that message.

Elsewhere in this edition, we look at the upcoming regulatory changes that come into effect on 1 June to strengthen the powers of LHA to further address unlawful conduct in the labour hire industry.

The changes will strengthen the ‘fit and proper’ person test, expand requirements for compliance with relevant laws, and require providers to be able to demonstrate financial viability. 

All labour hire businesses should be aware of the changes, especially when they are applying for or renewing a licence.

I hope you enjoy this edition.

Steve Dargavel
Labour Hire Licensing Commissioner

In this edition

• Construction provider must cease operations after VCAT dismisses stay application
• Be aware of labour hire law changes that come into effect from 1 June 2026
• Avoid the risk – get the right advice on upcoming labour hire law changes
• Providers in the security industry face licensing action for incorrectly applying the Registered and Licensed Clubs Award 2020
• May LHA events include sessions for horticulture businesses on the Mornington Peninsula and a webinar for accountants and tax agents
• Providers subject to licensing action in March 2026

Licensing update

April 2026:

• 90 licence applications submitted
• 186 licence renewals granted
• 65 licences granted
• 47 licences refused, or cancelled (by LHA or provider)

Resources

• South Australia’s labour hire licensing laws have been expanded to cover labour hire businesses and workers in all industries. Providers in the newly added industries have until 29 July 2026 to undertake the necessary requirements and become licensed. For more information, visit the South Australia Consumer and Business Services website.