The Andrews Labor Government is urging farmers to remain vigilant this National Farm Safety Week and to prioritise safety for themselves, their family and visitors.
On average, Victorian 14 per cent of workplace fatalities occur in the agriculture industry while representing only two per cent of the state's workforce and this year seven people have already died as a result of a workplace incident on Victorian farms.
Emma Bolding, an organic beef farmer from Warrnambool and her partner Steve took over the family farm in 2019 and in a bid to improve workplace practices developed an Occupational Health and Safety plan.
Part of the plan involves regular assessments of machinery, gates and fences and installing adequate infrastructure for weather protection.
Last year, Ms Bolding received a Labor Government Farm Safety Rebate to purchase new cattle crushes, a livestock handling device that safely holds animals in place during examinations or treatments, minimising the risk of injury to both the animal and the handler.
The new equipment is improving safety on the farm, as well as workflow and efficiency.
The $5 million Farm Safety Rebate Scheme is part of the $20 million Smarter, Safer Farms Program and has helped over a thousand farms make permanent safety improvements.
It's aimed at improving and increasing awareness Victoria's on-farm safety, and upskilling farmers to manage and improve their businesses.
For more information about the Government's farm safety programs visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/smartersaferfarmsExternal Link.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Gayle Tierney
"We're working with farmers and industry to continue improving farm safety across Victoria and encourage farmers to take a proactive role in assessing and addressing safety concerns on their properties."
"Farm safety is critically important, and this week is a reminder to farmers to identify risks and make changes so those who work, live or visit farms avoid serious injury."
As stated by Organic Beef Farmer Emma Bolding
"Steve and I both view farm safety as non-negotiable. It's our responsibility to make sure anyone working or visiting the farm is home safe at the end of every day."
