Register to attend community consultation on tougher OHS sentencing

16 February 2024

There is nothing more important than our health, and no workplace issue more important than safety; every worker deserves a safe workplace.

But too many ASU members are exposed to risk and harm – physical or mental or both – every single day because their employer fails to provide a safe workplace.

Workplaces are not preventing exposure to risk, employers routinely ignore their legal obligations – to provide a safe working environment, engage in effective consultation and proactively resolve issues – and some actively break the law and/or discriminate against those who stand up for their rights.

For the first time in 20 years, the Sentencing Advisory Council is undertaking a review of sentencing for OHS offences, and it is essential that they hear directly from workers.

The SAC is holding a series of community consultation events, and we encourage all ASU delegates, HSRs and members to attend and share your views. All sessions run from 5.30 – 7pm.
Ballarat – 19 February
Morwell – 21 February
Shepparton – 23 February
Bendigo – 26 February
Geelong – 28 February
Lilydale – 18 March
Dandenong – 20 March
Melbourne (CBD) – 22 March
Werribee – 25 March

Click here to register to attend a consultation session.

Click here to view the consultation paper.

We know that bosses – including their well organized and highly-paid lobbyists like VECCI and the AIG – will be attending to say that existing sentences are too harsh.

ASU members must be there to demonstrate community support for stronger OHS sentencing and advocate for:
  • Harsher penalties that will deter bosses from exposing workers to harm;
  • Act as a real disincentive to cut corners when it comes to your safety;
  • Ensure that employers understand that providing a safe workplace is a core business need; and
  • Provide justice for workers that are harmed or killed because of unsafe working conditions.
For more information please contact:
ASU project outreach officer Clay O’Brien | 0476 330 885 |  [email protected]