Free SWMS Template (NZ & AU)
A ready-to-fill Safe Work Method Statement for high-risk construction work — job steps, hazards, control measures and worker sign-off. Print it, or build it online in 60 seconds.
What's in the SWMS template
- Project & high-risk work details
- Responsible persons & supervisor
- High-risk activity checklist
- Job steps, hazards & controls
- Plant, equipment & permits
- PPE checklist
- Emergency procedures
- Worker sign-off register
Get the free SWMS template
Pop your email in and we'll send the template, ready to print or save as PDF today.
Paper SWMS, or done in 60 seconds?
The template above is free — but a SWMS for every high-risk job means re-writing the same steps, hazards and controls again and again. The real competition is a pen and a piece of paper — Formate is just faster.
With Formate you set your method statement once. Every new job opens with last time's steps already filled in, so you only change what's different today, get your crew to sign on the phone, and email the PDF on. Nothing lost, nothing smudged, no scanning runs.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the SWMS template free?+
Yes. Download it, print it, and fill it in by hand — no cost, no credit card. Formate can also build the same Safe Work Method Statement online in about 60 seconds if you'd rather not re-type it each job.
Does this SWMS work for both New Zealand and Australia?+
Yes. The template follows the WHS Act 2011 structure used across Australia for high-risk construction work, and works equally well alongside an SSSP on New Zealand sites under WorkSafe NZ.
When do I need a SWMS?+
A SWMS is required for high-risk construction work — for example work at height above 2m, trenching, demolition, asbestos, confined spaces, work near live electrical or traffic. The template includes a checklist of high-risk activities to tick.
What's the difference between a SWMS and a JSA?+
Both break a job into steps with hazards and controls. A SWMS is the formal document required for high-risk construction work (especially in AU). A JSA (Job Safety Analysis) is a lighter task-level tool used for everyday jobs. Many crews use a JSA daily and a SWMS for high-risk tasks.