The Department of Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare (DOSHWA) was created on 5 March 1985 and inherited functions from the Health Department of Western Australia and Departments of Mines and Industrial Affairs.

The Department implemented occupational health, safety and welfare policy, provided advice to the Minister, and was responsible for day-to-day administration and enforcement of occupational health and safety legislation. Its corporate objectives were:

• to ensure a minimum of hazards in the working environment;
• to minimise risks from hazards in the working environment and to ensure the provision of occupational welfare services in the workplace.

DOSHWA was abolished on 1 October 1996 and replaced by Worksafe WA.

Worksafe WA is responsible for the administration of work safety and health laws. To promote and secure the safety and health of persons in the work place, Worksafe WA undertakes a wide range of regulatory activities as well as industry and community awareness programs.