Published: 18 January 2023
Nineteen finalists across six categories have been shortlisted for the awards, which are now in their 33rd year.
The awards recognise those who have made a significant contribution to improving health and safety within a workplace. Winners will be announced at an event at Melbourne's Plaza Ballroom on 23 February, with tickets on sale now.
Workers from a diverse range of industries are represented in categories that highlight the efforts of health and safety representatives and the resolve of injured workers in returning to work.
Also among the finalists are organisations that have shown leadership in OHS issues, implemented significant safety solutions, helped injured workers return to employment, and made a commitment to help prevent mental injury in the workplace.
Industries represented include construction, education, health, maritime, retail, racing and agriculture.
With more than 120 nominations received, WorkSafe Executive Director of Health and Safety Narelle Beer said making the shortlist was a significant accomplishment in itself.
“I want to congratulate all 19 finalists and also thank those who took the time to nominate for these long-running awards,” Dr Beer said.
“There are so many interesting, important and inspiring stories among the finalists and I'm proud that WorkSafe is shining a light on the fantastic work each is doing to improve health and safety in Victorian workplaces.
“In the health and safety representative category we've got finalists who have advocated for mental health support and highlighted sexual assault issues, while the safety solutions category features products that prevent backhoe rollovers and collisions on the docks.”
Dr Beer said the awards event would be a coming-together of leading advocates for workplace health and safety.
“It's going to be a great night and I encourage anyone passionate about improving health and safety in the workplace to come along,” Dr Beer said.
Tickets can be purchased online at the Eventbrite website or email [email protected] for more information.
2022 WorkSafe Awards finalists
Health and Safety Representative of the Year
- Adrian Zammit (DP World)
- Michelle Giovas (Monash University)
- Bruce Mahaki (Toll Global Logistics)
- Sheila Narayan (Office of Public Advocate)
- Sean Aherne (InfraBuild)
OHS Leadership/Achievement
- Renata Musolino (Victorian Trades Hall Council)
- Delta Group
- Goulburn Valley Safety Group
Commitment to Prevention of Mental Injury in the Workplace
- GlaxoSmithKline
- CDC Victoria
Workplace Health and Safety Solution of the Year
- Level Crossing Removal Project (Cranbourne line upgrade)
- Synergetics Consulting Engineers (Towards zero exposure)
- Consolidated Plant Services and Banyule City Council (Interlock backhoe mechanism)
- Patrick Terminals Melbourne (Straddle proximity system)
Leading Return to Work Practice
- Kmart
- Berry Street
Worker Return to Work Achievement
- David Wrout (Grampians Racing)
- Alan Nicholson (GrainCorp)
- Nicole Townsend (East Grampians Health Service)