Mildura construction blitz to target falls and mental health risks

The latest Cross Border operation will include a free trade breakfast ahead of the inspections, giving businesses an opportunity to discuss construction hazards and preparing worksites for inspection. It will run from 7–8.30am on Friday 15 November at Dahlsens, 973/1029 Benetook Ave, Mildura.

WorkSafe Director of Construction and Earth Resources Ben Sullivan said inspectors would check whether employers were meeting their health and safety obligations, with particular attention to falls and workplace mental health. “No one ever thinks that they will fall at work, but the fact is hundreds of Victorian construction workers are seriously injured in falls every year – this can and should be prevented,” Mr Sullivan said.

Mr Sullivan said inspectors would also examine how employers were addressing psychosocial hazards, including bullying, fatigue and extreme workloads, and remind duty holders of their responsibility to manage these risks.

SafeWork NSW Regional Director Construction Service Kane Scott highlighted the role of employers and business owners in creating mentally healthy workplaces. He said businesses must identify and manage risks that could cause psychological harm to employees.

Mr Scott said economic pressures, including inflation and supply chain disruption, had led many businesses to overlook workers’ health, safety and wellbeing. “Businesses must not put productivity or profit above workers’ safety.”

Since 2023, Victoria’s construction industry has recorded 19 fatalities, including six involving falls from height. Over the same period, WorkSafe accepted more than 6,370 claims for workers injured in the state’s construction industry, including 49 in the Mallee area.

Mental injury claims in construction are increasing across both NSW and Victoria. Workers with mental injuries often need longer recovery periods and more services and support than those with physical injuries.

Common psychosocial hazards in construction include harassment, including sexual or racial harassment, bullying, work pressure, exposure to traumatic events and violence, and hazardous physical working environments. Preventing psychological harm, supporting recovery and promoting mental health are all important elements of a mentally healthy workplace.

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