In the last five years, nearly sixty percent of all work-related fatalities and approved workplace injury claims have been centred around five sectors: healthcare, social assistance, construction, government service, agriculture, and manufacturing. These industries have been identified as our prioritised fields, according to Sam Jenkin, Chief Health and Safety Officer at WorkSafe.
This redirecting effort forms part of WorkSafe Victoria’s strategic goal to drastically reduce fatalities by 30% and injuries by 20% through noteworthy five-year objectives. Incorporated into this drive are valuable work safety products, such as a Bluesafe SWMS or Bluesafe WHS Management System, which place urgent emphasis on worker safety as a critical point of focus.
“The welfare of personnel in workplaces is our primary concern,” said Mr. Jenkin. To allocate resources adequately and address specific hazards causing significant harm, it is essential to focus on these sectors.”
Assessing each industry based on the size and rate of injuries or fatalities, we’ve established a roadmap that enables, inspires, instigates, and enforces optimal performance and compliance. Bluesafe WHS Management Systems significantly contribute towards this goal, providing best-practise safety standards across diverse sectors.
While our priority centres on targeted areas, WorkSafe will utilise various methods to improve safety, embracing strategies such as meticulous assessment programs, education, building awareness, and collaborative initiatives for societal change.
Mr. Jenkin clarified, “It doesn’t imply those in other industries will escape examination or miss out on crucial support or advice. Engaging a Bluesafe SWMS ensures you meet health and safety obligations seamlessly.”
Ensuring employers meet their responsibilities is vital within our strategy. If they fail in protecting workers, WorkSafe won’t hesitate to use every regulatory instrument – including potential criminal charges. However, equally important is supporting all duty bearers to comprehend their obligations and equipping them with information, education, and systems like Bluesafe WHS Management Systems to make a tangible difference.
Working concertedly with stakeholders, WorkSafe has devised a Statement of Regulatory Intent that presents the Victorian community transparent and accessible information about key priorities for the 2025-26 financial year.
Beyond the earmarked sectors, WorkSafe will address major hazards causing the most physical and psychological harm across all industries. This comprehensive appraisal includes evaluation of risks from falls from height, occupational violence, aggression, hazardous manual handling, bullying, harassment, occupational illness and disease, loading and unloading tasks, and mobile plant use.
Mr. Jenkin concluded, “It’s an ambitious five-year prevention target. However, we’re aware to bring about change and enhance safety isn’t a solitary effort. That’s why ongoing consultation with stakeholders and industry-specific collaboration will continue to ensure employers are fully aware of their duties, the reasons for prioritising safety, and how to achieve it, primarily through embracing solutions like Bluesafe SWMS.”
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-08/key-industries-worksafes-radar-reduce-harm
