Safety excellence to be rewarded at WorkSafe Awards

From 95 submitted nominations, 22 finalists have been shortlisted across seven award categories, each recognising excellence in workplace health and safety and return to work.

The winners of the 36th annual WorkSafe Awards will be announced at an event on 26 February at the Plaza Ballroom, with tickets on sale now.

WorkSafe Chief Executive Officer Cathy Henderson said the strong field of nominations and finalists were inspiring examples of what’s possible when workplace safety is taken seriously.

“Each year, the WorkSafe Awards show how employers and workers across the state can reduce workplace harm and assist injured workers back to work,” Ms Henderson said.

“Every finalist has a powerful story worth sharing. We hope their efforts will inspire others to make a difference in their workplace.”

This year’s finalist line-up includes sectors such as healthcare, landscaping, construction and local government – each showing leadership in workplace health and safety, creating practical safety solutions, or helping injured workers return to work.

Excellence in preventing and managing workplace psychosocial risks will also be recognised, along with the vital efforts of five Health and Safety Representatives representing Victorian workers.

The awards will also honour the inspiring resilience of four Worker Return to Work category finalists and innovative safety technology in the agriculture sector.

Ms Henderson said that included a game-changing workforce safety system co-designed by farmers and farm workers, and a new autonomous robot used in place of tractors to increase safety during table grape harvest.

"Workplace safety is always a team effort, so it’s important to take the time to celebrate the innovations and hard work of people who share a passion for improving the lives of workers around Victoria,” she said.

“We look forward to honouring the work and initiatives of each finalist at our event next month.”

Tickets are on sale until Friday 30 January and can be purchased online at the Eventbrite website or email [email protected] for more information.

2025 WorkSafe Awards Finalists:

Leading RTW Practice

• Injury Assist – Royal Melbourne Hospital
• The City of Greater Geelong

Worker RTW Achievement

• Dennis Gabriel – Yarrawonga Riverlands Tourist Park
• Lilith Dowling – CRANK
• Maree McLean – Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education
• Eileen Harris – Manningham Council

Excellence in Preventing and Managing Psychosocial Risk

• Warakirri Cropping
• Manor Lakes Community Learning Centre

Farm Safety Solution

• PIPA – People in Paddocks
• Autonomous Vehicles in Table Grapes – Costa Group

OHS Leadership/Achievement

• Healesville-Koo Wee Rup Road Project - Seymour Whyte Constructions
• Clerk of Works – Cladding Safety Victoria
• Grant Fuller – Wellness in Infrastructure

Workplace Health & Safety Solution of the Year

• The Buddie System
• Genie Grips
• Tree Coach – Natural Growth Partners
• Sexual Safety Guideline – Royal Melbourne Hospital

Health and Safety Representative of the Year

• Tony Timu – V-Line
• Anna Musgrave – Ambulance Victoria
• Ben Lennon – Crown Melbourne
• Bessie Taitoko & Owen Glassenbury - Northern Health Foundation
• Manny Mason – City of Ballarat