General News
26 February, 2026
New campaign launched to boost farm safety
THE Victorian Government has launched a new farm safety campaign in a bid to highlight the importance of remaining vigilant when working out on the land.
The new WorkSafe campaign encourages Victorian farmers to see safety as an investment which protects lives, improves productivity and strengthens long-term success.
Agriculture workers continue to be over-represented in workplace fatalities, accounting for around 10 per cent of annual workplace deaths despite making up just two per cent of Victoria’s workforce.
Farm vehicles such as tractors, quad bikes and trucks account for almost half of those deaths. Livestock incidents remain another leading cause.
Deputy Premier Ben Carroll launched the ‘Safety – it does more than keep you safe’ campaign, which highlights how simple safety improvements can make farms safer, more efficient and more sustainable.
“It’s tragic to see farmers continuing to be overrepresented in workplace fatalities,” he said.
“This campaign is about sharing the tangible benefits of simple safety improvements.
“I encourage those in the industry to look out for each other and share safety advice, knowledge and learnings, because it can make a difference.”
The $2.8 million campaign runs across television, radio, print, outdoor, digital and social media. It features real Victorian farmers sharing their own experiences.
Fifth-generation farmer Rob Abbott, who runs Mount William Station at Willaura, is one of them.
After upgrading his cattle yards, Mr Abbott found processing cattle became safer, quicker and less stressful for his animals – improving both safety and productivity.
WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said risks within the industry could be mitigated to ensure farmers are as protected as possible.
“Farming is tough work with inherent risks, but avoiding these risks isn’t impossible,” he said.
“When safety is front-of-mind and appropriate systems are in place to protect people, every tragedy is preventable.”
WorkSafe provides practical, industry-designed guidance to help farmers identify risks and make meaningful improvements on their properties.
Farmers are encouraged to talk with others in the industry about what works, share lessons learned and take simple steps that can prevent tragedy while improving the way they operate.
For more information visit worksafe.vic.gov.au/agriculture.