International Workers Memorial Day has been observed globally since 1996, when unions in over 100 countries committed to honouring workers killed, injured or made ill by their jobs. This year, the day falls at a moment that demands more than just quiet reflection from Queensland workers.
The Queensland Government has chosen to open a review of workers' compensation laws that explicitly targets the rise in psychological injury claims. In its first week of sitting, the LNP Government rushed through legislation reinstating a 24-hour advance notice requirement for WHS entry permit holders and removed workers rights to immediately cease unsafe work.
While every other Australian state is strengthening workplace protections, Queensland is winding them back. Your Union is not going to let that happen quietly.
The LNP's attacks on psychosocial safety should not go unnoticed by Queensland public servants. Mental health claims are among the fastest-growing category of serious workers compensation claims in Australia. In Queensland, primary psychological injury claims have nearly doubled in five years. Workers in health, education and public administration are among the hardest hit, reporting facing serious psychosocial hazards including workload, lack of role clarity and an exposure to violence.
These are your workplaces. These are your colleagues.
On Tuesday 28 April at 12:00 PM, the annual IWMD commemoration will be held at Speakers' Corner, Queensland Parliament House.
We remember because these are real people. And we organise because our safety at work is still under attack. Now more than ever, it is important for us to stand together and fight for our protections. Workers should never be afraid of losing their life due to a workplace hazard.
If your workplace is affected by psychosocial, or other hazards, talk to your delegates about what your Union can do. If you do not have a delegate, consider putting your hand up. The strongest safety net in any workplace is not a policy document. It is workers looking out for each other.
We hope to see you at Speakers' Corner.
