The 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney's Darling Harbour has wrapped up after bringing together over 3,000 attendees from 127 countries.
Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis officially opened World Congress on Monday, saying the event offered a "rare opportunity" for delegates from around the world to come together and share ideas on how to reduce workplace incidents.
The year's theme 'Shaping Change – collaborating for a healthier and safer world of work', focused on working together for a better future, a changing world of work, as well as how to future-proof against ongoing and re-emerging risks.
From Tuesday to Thursday, delegates attended more than 30 symposia, three keynote sessions and six technical sessions with 250 speakers from across countries, industries and professions.
Recently appointed Head of SafeWork NSW Trent Curtin was present throughout the Congress, speaking at several events including a Regulators Roundtable which brought together OSH leaders from around the world to speak about the challenges and successes in their nations, and share unique insights into future of OSH regulation.
Members of SafeWork's Family and Injured Workers Support and Advisory Group were involved in an immensely powerful and moving discussion on the long-lasting effects of losing a loved one in a workplace accident or from being seriously injured at work and how their experiences can help shape the future of workplace regulation.
Last night, SafeWork's Executive Director for Regulatory Engagement and President of this year's World Congress Andrew Gavrielatos closed the curtain on this year's event by referring to all who attended as a "community" who must committed to lowering the number of workplace incidents around the world.
Quotes to be attributed to the Minister for Work Health and Safety, Sophie Cotsis:
"It's been great to see this global gathering of safety experts in NSW, fostering innovative thinking and best practice.
"The NSW Government takes safety at work very seriously and will do all to action the many ideas and recommendations that have come out of this conference."
Quotes to be attributed to Head of SafeWork Trent Curtin:
"Together regulators from across the world can learn from each other, share knowledge and experience and ensure best practice approaches across jurisdictions.
"SafeWork showcased many examples of our expertise on the world stage. We should be proud that we have so many experienced and knowledgeable staff that can contribute to the international discourse on leading work health and safety practises.
"It was great to see the Families and Injured Workers Support and Advisory Group on the world stage. When we listen to those affected by workplace injuries and deaths, we can improve our regulatory approaches and achieve better outcomes together."
