The Victorian government is supporting new initiatives to improve safety and reduce workplace harm across the state’s manufacturing sector.
Deputy premier and minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll announced that applications are now open for the latest round of the WorkSafe Grants program, focused on preventing hazards and improving safety in manufacturing workplaces. Grants of up to $300,000 are available for projects that improve safety, build awareness of workplace risks, and encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing across the industry.
“Through these WorkSafe grants, we’re empowering businesses to develop practical solutions that protect workers from both current and emerging safety risks as our manufacturing sector rapidly grows,” he said.
Manufacturing is one of WorkSafe’s priority industries for enforcement and harm prevention. Common injuries include body stress, being struck by moving or falling objects, and slips, trips, and falls. While the industry employs about eight per cent of Victoria’s workforce, it accounted for more than one in ten WorkCover claims accepted last financial year. So far this year, WorkSafe has accepted more than 2,000 claims from manufacturing workers.
“As part of WorkSafe’s strategy to reduce workplace fatalities and injuries, we’re focusing on priority industries, such as manufacturing, where the most harm is occurring,” said WorkSafe chief executive officer Ash West.
The grant can include investment in new technology or equipment, developing and sharing knowledge and resources, or introducing safer ways of working.
Eligible organisations, including employers, local or community groups, and employee or employer associations, can apply for the current round of WorkSafe grant funding until Wednesday 3 December.
“Every Victorian deserves a safe work environment, which is why we are helping our manufacturers create safer workplaces,” said minister for industry and advanced manufacturing Colin Brooks.