ACT launches Residential Construction Strategy 2022–24

WorkSafe ACT has launched its updated Residential Construction Strategy 2022–24 (the Strategy) to improve safety behaviour in the residential construction industry. The ACT’s residential construction industry reportedly 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 was launched on 29 June with 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 in attendance. WHS Commissioner Jacqueline Agius said workplace injury, illness and disease are avoidable and WorkSafe ACT is committed to protecting all workers in all workplaces.

“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,” said Agius.

Gentleman said WorkSafe ACT’s updated Residential Construction Strategy will continue to focus the industry’s effort to ensure worker safety. “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,” said Gentleman.

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