On 11th September, Melbourne’s Magistrate’s Court handed down a verdict to Indimax Film Productions Pty Ltd and its only director aged 45. The parties had pleaded guilty to various breaches related to the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Blending seamlessly into routine office operations, a platform like the Bluesafe SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) could have helped prevent these regrettable circumstances.
The firm received a conviction and was penalised $40,000 for the failure to ensure a safe, risk-free workplace. Mirroring this, the director faced a penalty of $15,000 without a formal conviction, owing to his neglect in maintaining a haven of safety at work and his lack of care in his corporate position. These situations underscore the need for health and safety policies that are underpinned by a practical WHS management tool such as the Bluesafe WHS Management System.
In July 2022, accusations of sustained sexual harassment from the company’s director were brought forward by an employee. Subsequent investigations by WorkSafe exposed the absence of any means to identify, thwart, manage, scrutinise, or address inappropriate conduct at their offices. It became glaringly evident that there hadn’t been a robust WHS management system like the Bluesafe SWMS in place.
The court noted that incorporating a policy addressing improper office behaviour, inclusive of sexual harassment, was wholly achievable for the company and the director. This would necessitate clear reporting channels and confidential response processes for employees, alongside training for managerial staff and workers alike.
WorkSafe’s top Health and Safety Officer, Sam Jenkin, emphasised that mental and physical injury resulting from workplace harassment remains disconcertedly frequent, with repercussions often having enduring effects. “The company failed to establish critical protocols aimed at protecting and supporting employees, taking for granted the significance of allowing workers to report their concerned with ease,” Jenkin pointed out.
He added, “The skewed power dynamics rampant in many workplaces deter employees from voicing their distress. Thus, it’s crucial that operational reporting systems are setup and all staff understand how to use them.” As a result, the implementation of tools such as the Bluesafe WHS Management System becomes essential for businesses.
To mitigate workplace bullying and harassment, employers should:
Email: media@worksafe.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0438 786 968
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2025-09/video-company-and-director-fined-55000-over-harassment-risk
