MEDIA RELEASE: CALLS FOR BUSINESSES TO INVEST IN SAFETY THIS NEW FINANCIAL YEAR AS INJURIES COST LIVES AND BILLIONS
Date: 06/07/2026
Businesses across the nation are being urged to make investments in safety and prevention a priority as they start the new financial year.
Safe Work Australia figures show on average 191 workers a year lost their lives on the job between 2021 and 2026. Another 146,700 serious workers' compensation claims were lodged with each resulting in at least one week off work. It is the equivalent to more than 400 serious claims a day across Australia.
It is also estimated that eliminating work-related injuries and harm could boost the Australian economy by $28.6 billion annually and create more than 185,000 additional jobs.
Drawing on their shared commitment to safer and healthier workplaces, the Australian Institute of Health and Safety (AIHS) and EML Group (EML) warn that workplace harm continues to claim too many lives and costs the Australian economy billions each year
AIHS CEO Julia Whitford said too many businesses only recognise the value of workplace safety after an injury has occurred.
"Every worker deserves to go home safely at the end of the day, yet far too many Australians are still being seriously injured or losing their lives at work," Ms Whitford said.
"The biggest mistake businesses make is seeing safety as a cost instead of an investment. By the time an injury happens, the damage has already been done, to workers, families and the business itself."
"The start of a new financial year is a chance to get ahead of that. Investing in safer workplaces doesn't just prevent injuries, it allows businesses to perform at their best."
The Medical Journal of Australia found the Australian workforce loses the equivalent of more than 41,000 full-time working years annually due to work-related injuries, illnesses, and mental health issues.
EML General Manager, Mutual Benefits, Simone Witschge said the start of the new financial year is the perfect time for businesses to invest in prevention rather than pay the price later.
“We see firsthand how injuries and claims drive higher premiums, regulatory pressure and operational disruption, along with significant hidden costs like lost productivity, turnover and absenteeism,” Ms Witschge said.
“Investing in safety technology, equipment upgrades, training and psychosocial risk management delivers immediate impact by reducing risk and improving efficiency. Using available programs and funding can also help businesses start the year stronger,” she said.
“Organisations that prioritise prevention see fewer claims, lower premiums and stronger workforce engagement.”
Ms Whitford said the conversations business leaders have today determine how workers are protected over the next 12 months.
“It is important organisations do not to let investment in workplace safety slip down the list, what is prioritised today will be reflected in the safety, health and wellbeing of workers for the year ahead.”
ENDS
Media Enquiries:
AIHS Contact: Rebecca Turnbull
Tel: (03) 8336 1995
Email: [email protected]
About the AIHS: With a 77-year history, the Australian Institute of Health & Safety (AIHS) is the peak body representing workplace health and safety professionals, with a vision for safe and healthy people in productive workplaces and communities. The AIHS works with industry, government, regulators, unions, and experts to improve regulation, policy, safety standards and training.