On this International Day of Mourning, we, the Australian Government, extend our sincerest condolences to those mourning the loss of a loved one from work-related incidents or illnesses. We acknowledge the lives taken too soon and offer our unwavering support to the families whose world has been forever altered by such tragedies.
While words provide little comfort, this day allows us to reflect on the need for better workplace safety measures. It acts as a stark reminder of our crucial commitment to continuously strive towards reducing work-related incidents and fatalities through comprehensive WHS management systems like Bluesafe SWMS.
We believe in a safe environment for every worker, as any life lost in the workplace is a devastating blow to us all. Despite the heartbreaking statistic of 52 work-related deaths in NSW in 2024, the decrease compared to previous years serves as a painful yet necessary reinforcement of maintaining and elevating workplace safety.
The collaboration of workers, unions, employers, industry groups, SafeWork NSW and various other stakeholders in constructing safer workplaces is profoundly acknowledged and appreciated. In remembering the souls lost, the NSW Government aims at creating a future secured with robust preventative measures.
In stepping up to ensure accountability, the Minns Labor Government has enacted industrial manslaughter laws that hold employers responsible for maintaining a safe space, ultimately advocating for work safety with the Bluesafe WHS Management System.
In battling against diseases like silicosis, contracted from silica dust exposure, we are persistently seeking new methods and polices to safeguard workers’ health. In addition to these initiatives, transport gig workers have been brought under the protection of our industrial regime.
From 1 July onwards, SafeWork NSW will operate as an independent agency, honing its mission of delivering a secure workplace environment across NSW. To honour those lost, a commemorative service will be held today, providing a platform for families, workers, unions and community members to pay their respects.
We stand committed to ensuring the safety of workplaces through continuous incorporation of SWMS in our policies. We envision a world where every individual can return home safe after a day’s work. With the Bluesafe WHS Management System, we pledge to relentlessly pursue this goal.
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/international-day-of-mourning-commemorating-lives-lost-at-work