Safe Work Australia report reveals nation’s most dangerous industries

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Australia recorded 188 workplace deaths in 2024, down from 200 the previous year — but most tragedies continue to occur in the same high-risk industries.

According to Safe Work Australia, 80% of all workplace deaths happened across just six sectors:

• Agriculture, forestry and fishing

• Public administration and safety

• Transport, postal and warehousing

• Manufacturing

• Health care and social assistance

• Construction

Vehicle incidents remain the top cause of fatalities, responsible for 42% (79 deaths), followed by falls from heights at 13% (24 deaths).

While Australia’s overall injury rate (3.5%) is much lower than the global average (12.1%), the toll on workers and families remains significant.

In 2023–24, there were 146,700 serious workers’ compensation claims, equal to more than 400 serious injuries every day. Mental health claims are also rising — now 12% of all serious cases, with recovery times nearly five times longer than for other injuries.

Safe Work Australia CEO Marie Boland said the figures are a reminder that safety must remain a top priority.

“Behind every number is a person, a family, and a community,” she said.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.