Industry News
Fatal tailgate fall lands two-company charge
In Victoria, two companies have been charged over the 2023 death of a driver, who died after falling 1.2 metres from the live edge of a tailgate. [ + ]
Safe Work Australia releases Research and Evaluation Strategy
Setting out a national research agenda to make workplaces safe and save lives, Safe Work Australia's Research and Evaluation Strategy has been released. [ + ]
Workplace stabbing leads to federal WHS charge
After a worker was stabbed at the workplace, Services Australia is facing a maximum penalty of $1.2 million under a Comcare charge for breaching federal WHS laws. [ + ]
Worker struck in stomach by concrete prompts $72K fine
A concreter has been fined $72,000 after a 21-year-old worker sustained serious internal injuries after being struck while cleaning a high-pressure hose. [ + ]
Oz-based PIP completes Honeywell PPE acquisition
Australian-based company Protective Industrial Products, Inc. has completed its acquisition of Honeywell's personal protective equipment business. [ + ]
Waste pit gate amputation lands $580K fine
In Western Australia, a concrete manufacturing company has been fined $580,000 after a worker sustained serious injuries leading to an amputation. [ + ]
Victoria lays first engineered stone charges after ban
After a company allegedly directed a worker to use machinery to cut engineered stone, WorkSafe Victoria has laid its first charges under the new regulations. [ + ]
Law Society urges pause on NSW workers comp changes
The Law Society of NSW has recommended a pause in NSW for broader consultations on what it calls "rushed and unbalanced new workers compensation laws". [ + ]
May sentencing sees WorkSafe ACT surpass $1m in fines
On 12 May, a $70,000 penalty and conviction of a Category 3 offence saw WorkSafe ACT surpass a milestone of $1m in fines since August 2024. [ + ]
$595,000 fine follows hay press cutting chamber injury
In Western Australia, a hay processing company has been fined $595,000 after a worker's leg became trapped in the cutting chamber of a hay press. [ + ]
SafeWork NSW's 2025–26 priorities — have your say
Until 25 May, SafeWork NSW is seeking feedback from employers, workers, industry and unions on its regulatory priorities for the 2025–26 financial year. [ + ]
Queensland appoints Mining and Resources Coroner
The Queensland Government has appointed Wayne Pennell Mining and Resources Coroner, to investigate fatalities and make recommendations to enhance worker safety. [ + ]
Mine tragedy site added to NSW State Heritage Register
The Mount Kembla Mine Disaster Site Ruins and Setting, the site of Australia's worst mining disaster, has been recognised with a state heritage listing. [ + ]
Victoria offers workers free mental health support
In a pilot program, Victorian workers in small and medium-sized businesses who do not have similar support in place can access up to four free mental health sessions. [ + ]
Machinery head-crush fine almost doubled on appeal
A fine which was issued in Victoria last year — after a worker suffered life-threatening crush injuries when his head was caught in machinery — has been almost doubled on appeal. [ + ]
