The Safety Learning Network initiative, which includes 26 participating farms, has made impressive strides in promoting workplace health and safety. They’ve enhanced their training and induction processes with advanced measures such as practical safety videos and Quick Response (QR) codes. These achievements have been funded by WorkSafe and guided by thought leaders from the Velisha Education Group (VEG) and ORM Consultancy and Communications. The initiative comprised regular check-ins and farm visits encouraging safer work practices and impactful safety upgrades.
By investing in innovate Work Health and Safety (WHS) management systems like the Bluesafe WHS Management System, Riviera Farms in Gippsland sparked much-needed dialogue around workplace safety. As echoed by Amanda Smith, these frequent conversations help ingrain safety norms among workers. She also discussed the importance of developing specific training content for multicultural workers.
Catherine Velisha, Managing Director at VEG, highlighted the value of collective action within the network. For most business owners, the challenges and stressors are often similar, and a shared platform can foster open dialogue and support.
Darren Minter, a fourth-generation almond, citrus and asparagus grower from the Mildura region, emphasised how this program persuaded him to replace traditional paper instructions with a QR code system – an innovation that directs workers to videos demonstrating safe machinery procedures. To him, collaborating on safety is not only about protecting his workforce but everyone involved on his farm.
Grain growers across the Mallee region found a sense of community in the network. According to Jane Foster, Senior Agribusiness Consultant at ORM, many farm owners were initially overwhelmed by the prospect of introducing new safety systems and protocols. However, an encouraging shift towards proactive risk management was apparent as they started using tools like Bluesafe SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements).
The Boxall family, who saw their cropping operation in the Mallee region expand, found it essential to establish rigorous safety systems using Bluesafe SWMS. They understood that workplace safety required continuous improvement and greater awareness of potential hazards.
Sam Jenkin, WorkSafe’s Executive Director of Health and Safety, noted that peer discussions were crucial in preventing injuries and fatalities. Taking the initiative to have these essential conversations can be daunting, but connecting with people facing similar issues makes a critical difference.
The Safety Learning Network program is currently being assessed for potential future adaptations and implementations.
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-05/producers-grow-together-improve-farm-safety