Workplace watchdog finds 44 safety breaches across NSW farming sector

A recent inspection blitz by SafeWork NSW has uncovered 44 safety breaches across five labour hire firms operating in the Coffs Coast region of New South Wales. These inspections were conducted in both the Coffs Harbour and Riverina regions, with 34 compliance notices and five prohibition notices issued in total.

The SafeWork NSW commissioner, Janet Schorer, emphasized the focus on pack houses, agricultural businesses, and farms engaged in berry picking operations during the inspections. She highlighted a range of issues identified, including hazards related to moving plant machinery, electrical safety, and hazardous chemicals, which are common in the fruit farming industry.

The blitz came in the wake of serious modern slavery allegations in the fruit picking industry, where workers have been accused of being underpaid and not receiving appropriate entitlements. This followed a report by a state parliamentary inquiry that raised significant concerns about working conditions in the sector.

The Coffs Harbour region experienced an eight-day inspection of 28 businesses, while the Riverina saw a two-day operation involving 32 businesses inspected along with SIRA officers. Inspectors provided guidance on rectifying the issues and set timelines for compliance, followed by follow-up visits to ensure adherence.

Sophie Cotsis, the New South Wales Minister for Industrial Relations, acknowledged the presence of "dodgy operators" and stressed the importance of a coordinated approach involving both federal and state governments to address safety concerns in the fruit picking industry. She also expressed support for a national labour hire scheme, although existing states have opted out of the proposal.

Minister Cotsis highlighted the challenges faced by workers in providing information, noting that some are too scared to speak out due to fear of identification. She praised the Migrant Worker Centre, established by the government, for its efforts in reaching out to communities to disseminate crucial information. The NSW government is committed to ensuring worker safety and increasing the number of SafeWork inspectors to enforce compliance.