A Safe and Healthy Work Environment is a Human Right.
admin • November 3, 2024
Last week, on 30th October 2024, the Australian Government ratified the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions relating to Workplace Health and Safety.
This follows a landmark event in 2022, when the ILO recognised a safe and healthy work environment as a fundamental right at work. It became the 5th Workplace Human Right:
- freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining;
- the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour;
- the effective abolition of child labour;
- the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation; and
- a safe and healthy working environment.
Find out more about the ILO declaration and the latest changes at:
ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work | International Labour Organization
On 28 April 2026 , BeSafe joined those gathered at Argyle Square, Carlton , to mark International Workers’ Memorial Day (IWMD) in Melbourne. The ceremony honoured those who have lost their lives due to workplace injury or illness and renewed a shared commitment to safer, healthier workplaces. The service began with speeches made by The Secretary of Victorian Trades Hall Council (VTHC) Luke Hilikari, Premier Jacinta Allen, WorkSafe CEO Cathy Henderson and Lived Experience Advocate Lana Cormie. Assistant Secretary of VTHC Wil Stracke was the MC for the occasion and the Trade Union Choir sang throughout. The most moving part of the service was, as always, the boot laying ceremony. This year, 60 pairs of boots were laid to represent the workers lost in the past 12 months. Finally, a rose was laid to represent those who are not counted - in recognition that the numbers are vastly underestimated and many workplace deaths are not recorded in the official statistics. The vision of 60 pairs of boots sitting upon stools in the park is profoundly tragic and deeply moving. A minutes silence marked the moment. This was followed by attendees laying wreaths to honour the fallen workers. The speeches included messages of regret and sorrow, but also a call to action – as we can only truly honour the dead if we take action to ensure the safety of the workers of the future. “ Honour the dead, and fight like hell for the living .” At BeSafe, we are passionate about workers’ safety and we will continue to do anything we can to improve the safety of all Victorian workplaces. For more on this: Strong union message at workers’ memorial — Independent Education Union Victoria Tasmania STRONG MESSAGE TO COMMEMORATE FALLEN WORKERS ON IWMD - OHS Reps
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