ACT - WorkSafe ACT Launches Residential Construction Strategy 2022-24

With a focus on continuing to improve safety behaviours in the residential construction industry, WorkSafe ACT has launched an updated Residential Construction Strategy for 2022-24 (the Strategy).

The ACT’s residential construction industry has the highest number of workers’ compensation claims for the past five years compared to other sectors in the Territory. Data also shows that the most common offences have not significantly changed over the past two years, with breaches for not managing the risks of falls from heights, not securing the workplace and inadequate scaffolding featuring consistently across the ACT.

The Strategy launch event was held at Denman Village Community Centre on 29 June. Minister for Industrial Relations and Workplace Safety, Mick Gentleman MLA, Minister for Homelessness and Housing Services and Minister for Sustainable Building and Construction, Rebecca Vassarotti MLA, members of the WHS Council, and representatives from industry associations and union groups attended the event.

Quotes attributable to WHS Commissioner, Jacqueline Agius:

“Despite considerable effort from WorkSafe ACT, we continue to observe unsafe work practices and WHS breaches in the residential construction sector.”

“WorkSafe ACT Inspectors are constantly on the ground enforcing the WHS provisions. In 2020-2021, twice as many improvement notices were issued per visit compared to the previous year.”

“WorkSafe ACT will continue its strong presence in the sector. As we launch our updated Strategy, we look forward to partnering with all stakeholders to embed real and sustainable change.”

“Workplace injury, illness and disease are avoidable. WorkSafe ACT is committed to protecting all workers in all workplaces.”

“We all have one thing in common, that is everyone wants every worker and every workplace to be healthy and safe.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Industrial Relations and Workplace Safety, Mick Gentleman:

“The construction industry is a driving force in Canberra’s growth and economy. As our city grows, there is an increased responsibility to make sure all workers in all residential construction industry workplaces are safe. WorkSafe ACT’s updated Residential Construction Strategy will continue to focus the industry’s efforts on this priority.”

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