Australia’s workforce continues to face alarming rates of death, illness, and injury, with Safe Work Australia’s 2024 report showing a concerning rise in workplace fatalities and injuries. Tragically, 200 workers lost their lives in 2023, an increase of five deaths compared to 2022.
These deaths are more than just statistics; they represent real lives cut short and families left behind. Every single death at work is unacceptable, and all workers have the fundamental right to a safe and healthy workplace.
Vehicle incidents continue to account for the largest proportion of worker fatalities at 42%, and falls from a height have surged by 71% since 2022, a staggering increase that calls for immediate action.
The mental health toll on workers is also on the rise, reminding us workplace injuries aren’t just physical. In 2022-23, 14,600 workers lodged claims for mental health conditions, making up 10.5% of all claims. This represents a 19.2% increase from the previous year and a shocking 97.3% rise compared to a decade ago. Stress, burnout, and unsafe working conditions are major contributors to this growing crisis.
These alarming statistics send a clear message that more must be done to protect workers. Governments and employers need to take stronger action, from implementing and enforcing robust safety standards, to investing in training and education that empower workers to understand and manage risks. Importantly, there must be accountability when safety is neglected. No worker should have to choose between their health and their job.
The Union movement has always been at the forefront of fighting for worker safety.
Evidence shows that having workplaces with Union members are safer and have increased health and safety awareness. By joining a union, workers gain a powerful collective voice to advocate for safer working conditions and report hazards without fear of retaliation. Unions demand that employers uphold their responsibilities and push for stronger health and safety laws, better enforcement, and penalties for those who put workers at risk.
The Union movement will not stop fighting for safer workplaces until every worker comes home safe. If you’re not yet part of a Union, consider joining to help make your workplace safer.
