November 12th, 2026State government brings on-the-spot fines to unsafe worksites
The state government is giving WorkSafe inspectors the power to issue on-the-spot fines to protect Victorian workers from deadly falls from height.
From Wednesday, March 31, 2027, employers can be fined on the spot for failing to control fall risks, starting high-risk construction work without a Safe Work Method Statement, or failing to keep safety records on hand for workers and inspectors.
Falls remain a leading cause of workplace deaths and serious injuries. In construction alone, 20 workers have died and more than 2,300 injury claims have been accepted since 2021.
Inspectors keep finding sites that ignore the rules. Now they can act on the spot.
There are no new obligations for employers. Those already breaking the law just face consequences sooner.
Failing to manage fall risks will cost up to $418.20 for individuals and $2,091 for companies. Other high-risk construction and record-keeping breaches carry fines of up to $250.92 and $1,254.60.
Prosecution stays on the table, with far higher penalties through the courts. In 2025–26, 46 duty holders were prosecuted over fall risks and penalised a combined $6.2 million, whether or not anyone was hurt.
Jess Wilson’s One Nation-Liberal coalition and their $40 billion cuts plan put protections like these at risk.
Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Steve Dimopoulos said:
“Every worker deserves to come home safe. If you cut corners on a roof or a scaffold, our inspectors can now fine you on the spot.”
“Harnesses, guardrails, a safety plan – these are the basics. Skipping them is against the law, and we won’t tolerate it.”
Member for Geelong Chris Couzens said:
“Geelong is home to WorkSafe, and to tradies who work at height every day. Every one of them should knock off and head home safe.”
WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said:
“The message to employers is clear – if you’re not meeting your existing safety obligations, WorkSafe now has more tools to hold you to account and keep workers safe.”
