Principal Contractor Liability: The Buck Stops Where?
In this instructive episode of P.I. Case Note, we analyse the Queensland Supreme Court decision in Sawyer v Steeplechase Pty Ltd [2024] QSC 142, which examines principal contractor liability and causation under the Workers’ Compensation and Rehabilitation Act 2003 (Qld). The case provides essential guidance on when principal contractors can be held liable for injuries to subcontractors’ employees on construction sites.
The court’s detailed causation analysis demonstrates how principal contractors who maintain overall site control and safety oversight cannot escape liability by pointing to subcontractor responsibilities. This decision reinforces that those who profit from construction projects while maintaining supervisory control must ensure safe working conditions for all workers on site, regardless of employment arrangements. The judgment offers valuable insights into the scope of principal contractor duties in Queensland.
Listen for our expert examination of this principal liability decision. If you’ve been injured on a construction site where multiple contractors were involved, determining liability can be complex. The experienced work accident lawyers at accident legal know how to investigate and pursue claims against all responsible parties, including principal contractors. Contact us for a free consultation.