WorkSafe is reminding Victorians that a single workplace death is one too many, after 50 Victorian workers died as a result of their work in 2024. While transport, construction and agriculture remain the deadliest industries, fatalities span across many industries and job roles, with small businesses accounting for more than half of the fatalities. We remind readers that this toll understates the actual cost of work with many occupational illnesses and cancers never being added to the official toll.
In addition, more than 25,500 Victorian employees were injured seriously enough in 2024 to receive approval for a workers’ compensation claim.
Those to lose their lives included labourers, truck drivers, farmers and farm hands, electricians, carpenters, firefighters, traffic controllers, teachers and delivery drivers.
Among the leading causes of workplace deaths were vehicle related incidents (both on and off road), chemical exposure and incidents involving machinery or equipment.
WorkSafe Executive Director Health and Safety Sam Jenkin said the toll highlighted the fact any workplace was susceptible to a tragedy, so it was essential for employers and workers to stay vigilant. Mr Jenkin said, "No family should suffer the devastation of losing a loved one at work and we remain unyielding in our commitment to working towards a future of zero workplace deaths".
Read more: Workplace tragedy does not discriminate | WorkSafe Victoria