Young Worker Dies After Warehouse Vehicle Collision

A young worker has been killed in a warehouse incident after being hit by a reversing front end loader while cleaning fertiliser from the back of a semi-trailer with an air compressor at around 8:15am.

WorkSafe has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatality, including traffic management, plant operation procedures, and the adequacy of any workplace health and safety management systems in place at the site. Key areas of focus are expected to include visibility, exclusion zones, communication between workers and operators, and the effectiveness of any safe work method statements (SWMS) relevant to vehicle and plant movements.

This death is the 13th confirmed workplace fatality for 2026, compared with 22 work-related deaths at the same time last year. The incident highlights the ongoing need for robust WHS policies, procedures and documented SWMS to manage high-risk activities involving mobile plant and vehicle-pedestrian interaction. Employers are reminded of their duty to provide a safe working environment, including appropriate training, supervision and clearly implemented traffic management plans.

For guidance on developing and maintaining effective WHS management systems and documentation, businesses may consider structured resources such as management systems and procedures available from specialist providers, for example: WHS Management Systems and Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS).

Media enquiries about this incident should be directed to WorkSafe Victoria via email at media @ worksafe.vic.gov.au or by phone on 0438 786 968.