Free Tool for Australian Tradies
Free SWMS Template Generator
Generate professional SWMS templates in minutes with our free online tool. Download safe work method statements designed to align with Australian WHS requirements for construction sites across Australia including NSW, QLD, VIC, and WA.
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SWMS Generator
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Before You Start
Important Notice
This SWMS generator is a template tool only. You must customise it for your specific workplace to ensure:
- — Relevant legal requirements for your state/territory are met
- — Workplace-specific risks are identified and managed
- — Workers are consulted during the customisation process
- — A qualified WHS professional or competent person reviews the final document
This tool does not provide, and is not a substitute for, professional legal, safety, or WHS advice. You are solely responsible for ensuring your SWMS meets all applicable requirements. By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Use.
Important Notice
This tool provides a template only. You must review and customise the output to suit your specific workplace and have it checked by a competent person before use. This tool does not provide, and is not a substitute for, professional legal, safety, or WHS advice. You should consult a qualified WHS professional or lawyer before relying on any document generated by this tool. By using this tool, you agree to our Terms of Use.
Understanding SWMS
What is a SWMS Template?
A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) template is a mandatory workplace safety document that outlines high-risk construction work activities, identifies hazards, and details control measures to prevent injuries. Also known as a SWMS form or safe work procedure, it serves as both a planning tool and a legal record.
Under Australian WHS legislation, a SWMS is required before any high-risk construction work begins. It must be prepared in consultation with workers and kept on-site for the duration of the work. Our SWMS example documents are designed to meet these requirements while being easy to customise for your specific tasks.
If you're a builder or contractor, having proper SWMS documentation is essential not just for compliance, but also for your public liability insurance and overall risk management strategy.
Step-by-Step Guide
How to Create a SWMS
Enter Business Details
Start by adding your company name, ABN, and contact information. You can also upload your logo to ensure the document looks professional and aligns with your brand.
Identify High-Risk Work
Select from the 19 high-risk construction work (HRCW) categories. This ensures your SWMS addresses the specific legislative requirements for your task.
Define Hazards and Controls
Break down the job into steps. For each step, identify potential hazards and list the control measures you will use to minimise risk. This is the core of your safety documentation.
Download and Implement
Download your completed SWMS as a PDF or Word document. Review it with your team, have workers sign off, and keep a copy on site to ensure compliance.
Key Benefits
Why Use Our Free SWMS Template Tool?
100% Free SWMS Templates
No hidden costs, no subscriptions. Download unlimited SWMS template free documents for your projects.
State-Specific Formatting
Generate templates formatted for NSW, QLD, VIC, WA, SA, TAS, NT, and ACT with the correct legislative references for each state.
Instant Download
Create and download your free SWMS template as a professional PDF or Word document ready to use on-site.
All 19 HRCW Categories
Covers all high-risk construction work categories including electrical, heights, confined spaces, demolition, and more.
SWMS Form Contents
What's Included in Our SWMS Templates?
Every SWMS example and blank SWMS template we generate includes these essential sections:
Project and site details
High-risk work activity description
Step-by-step work procedures
Hazard identification matrix
Risk assessment and control measures
PPE requirements
Emergency procedures
Sign-off sections for workers
State Compliance
SWMS Template Requirements by State
Our SWMS form generator automatically applies the correct legislative references for your state. Below are links to each state's workplace safety authority for additional guidance.
NSW
SWMS Template NSW
New South Wales requires SWMS for all high-risk construction work under WHS Regulation 2017. Our SWMS template NSW includes specific SafeWork NSW requirements.
SafeWork NSW →VIC
SWMS Template VIC
Victoria's WorkSafe requirements are built into our SWMS template VIC options, designed to align with OHS Act 2004.
WorkSafe Victoria →QLD
SWMS Template QLD
Queensland's Workplace Health and Safety regulations mandate SWMS for 19 categories of high-risk work. Download our SWMS template QLD designed to align with QLD WHS requirements.
WorkSafe Queensland →WA
SWMS Template WA
Western Australia's Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety standards are incorporated in our SWMS template WA documents.
WorkSafe WA →SA
SWMS Template SA
South Australia follows the harmonised WHS Act. Our SWMS example documents meet SafeWork SA requirements for high-risk construction activities.
SafeWork SA →TAS
SWMS Template TAS
Tasmania's Work Health and Safety Act 2012 requires SWMS for prescribed high-risk work. Our SWMS form includes the correct Tasmanian legislative references.
WorkSafe Tasmania →ACT
SWMS Template ACT
The Australian Capital Territory follows the harmonised WHS framework. Our SWMS templates are designed to align with WorkSafe ACT requirements.
WorkSafe ACT →NT
SWMS Template NT
Northern Territory's Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Act applies. Our SWMS form generator includes NT-specific legislative references.
NT WorkSafe →Who It's For
Who Needs a SWMS Template?
Our free SWMS form generator is essential for anyone involved in high-risk construction work:
Builders and construction contractors
Project managers and site supervisors
Subcontractors and tradespersons
Safety officers and WHS coordinators
Need insurance to go with your SWMS? See our builders insurance options.
Trade-Specific Templates
SWMS Examples by Trade
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is your SWMS template really free? +
Are these templates legally compliant? +
Can I edit the SWMS template after download? +
Do I need different templates for different states? +
What is a SWMS and when do I need one? +
Protect Your Business
Need Business Insurance?
Tank Insurance specialises in coverage for tradies and construction businesses. Get a quote for Public Liability, Professional Indemnity, and more.
Legal Disclaimer
The information and templates provided on this page are for general guidance only and do not constitute legal, safety, or professional advice. While we have designed these SWMS templates to align with Australian WHS legislation, it is your responsibility to ensure that any document you use is appropriate for your specific workplace, tasks, and circumstances. You should have your SWMS reviewed by a qualified WHS professional or competent person before relying on it.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, Tank Insurance, its directors, employees, and affiliates accept no liability for any loss, damage, injury, regulatory penalty, fine, or expense (including direct, indirect, consequential, or special damages) arising from the use of these templates or any document generated by this tool. This includes claims by third parties. To the extent permitted by law, all implied warranties are excluded. Nothing in this disclaimer excludes rights or remedies under the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) that cannot be excluded.
Use of this tool is entirely at your own risk and subject to our Terms of Use.