Victorians who have been affected by a serious workplace incident will be given the opportunity to directly shape important workplace safety reforms and initiatives.
The Victorian Government today called for expressions of interest from people affected by workplace fatalities, serious injuries and serious illness to participate in the newly formed Workplace Incidents Consultative Committee.
The group will strengthen the voices of those who have faced the trauma and ongoing challenges of losing a loved one or suffering a serious injury or illness on the job.
Participants will provide advice to the Minister for Workplace Safety on how best to support injured workers and their families, prevent serious workplace incidents and make Victorian workplaces safer.
The Government has provided $4 million over four years to support the work of the Committee and put its recommendations into practice.
This fund is part of the Government’s $10 million package to increase the support available to workers and families who have been affected by serious workplace incidents and strengthen workplace safety laws.
The Committee is being established as part of the tough new workplace manslaughter laws that were introduced one year ago today and came into effect on 1 July 2020.
It was developed in close consultation with families to empower those affected by serious workplace incidents to advocate for change.
Expressions of interest can be submitted at vacancies.publicboards.vic.gov.au until 22 November 2020.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Workplace Safety Ingrid Stitt
“Too many Victorian families know the pain of losing a loved one at work - we’re asking for their help to deliver reforms that will prevent others from experiencing such a tragic loss.”
“People who have been personally affected by a serious injury, illness or death on the job deserve to have their voices heard when it comes to workplace safety – and their views at the heart of any reform.”
Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Workplace Safety Bronwyn Halfpenny
“We want every worker to come home safe and healthy every day. The insights and advice provided by members of the Workplace Incidents Consultative Committee will be fundamental to achieving this goal.”
Reviewed 29 October 2020