The Allan Labor Government is enhancing safety for farmers across Victoria with a significant investment. A funding agreement of $2.6 million was announced by Deputy Premier and Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC, Ben Carroll, to support the next phase of the Making Our Farms Safer project. This initiative aims to provide tailored resources and expert guidance, ensuring that farms are safe environments for work and visits.
The funding will expand the project’s dedicated safety advisory service, which delivers in-person support directly on farms. This service focuses on identifying and managing key risks associated with agricultural work, a sector that employs approximately 2 percent of the Victorian workforce but is classified as one of the state’s high-risk industries. Since 2021, there have been 33 work-related deaths in agriculture, alongside 2,458 claims accepted by WorkSafe for serious injuries in the sector.
Enhanced Focus on High-Risk Areas
The next phase of the Making Our Farms Safer project will specifically address high-risk areas, including cattle handling and the operation of machinery such as tractors, quad bikes, and side-by-sides. These activities collectively account for over a quarter of all farm injuries.
With the new funding, the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) plans to visit hundreds of farms, organize safety events, and offer more practical support from industry experts and peers who understand the complexities of farm life. This initiative is part of WorkSafe’s broader strategy to foster strong relationships with farmers and industry groups, aiming to reduce injuries and fatalities within the agriculture sector.
The ongoing campaign, It’s Never You Until It Is, highlights the importance of safety by sharing success stories and promoting conversations around safety practices. It challenges the misconception that serious injuries only affect inexperienced farmers, emphasizing that safety is a shared responsibility.
Statements from Key Officials
Deputy Premier Ben Carroll emphasized the importance of investing in farm safety, stating, “An investment in farm safety is an investment in the people who keep Victoria running.” He added that the project aims to support farmers in creating safer work environments without unnecessary bureaucracy.
WorkSafe’s Chief Health and Safety Officer, Sam Jenkin, acknowledged the critical role of farmers in Victoria’s economy and stressed the need for safety measures. “It takes real conversations and real connections to create change and a culture of safety,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer of the VFF, Charlie Thomas, noted the project’s effectiveness since its inception in 2020. “Nothing beats in-person, tailored safety advice to your farm,” he stated, encouraging farmers to utilize the free resources available.
For more information on this initiative, interested parties can visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/saferfarms or makingourfarmssafer.org.au. The funding and resources provided through this partnership highlight a commitment to improving safety standards and reducing the risk of injury in Victoria’s agricultural sector.
