Scheme saves lives

Hundreds of quad bikes across Victoria have been fitted with rollover protection since the state government’s $6 million scheme came into effect.

More than 1580 quad bikes have had rollover protection devices fitted since October 2016, with a further 1034 grants to help farmers buy more terrain-appropriate vehicles.

More than $2.3 million in rebates have been provided since the scheme began, which forms part of an ongoing WorkSafe campaign to reduce the number of deaths on Victorian farms.

The rebate has so far proved most popular with beef and sheep farmers, while dairy farmers have accounted for 21 per cent of applicants.

Farmers who have not yet taken up the rebate are encouraged to do so before WorkSafe begins new compliance activities this year to reduce the risks associated with quad bike rollovers.

The quad bike rebate scheme was announced by the state government last year and is managed by the Victorian Farmers Federation in partnership with WorkSafe.

Eligible farmers are offered $600 to fit a rollover protection device on their existing quad bike, or $1200 towards the cost of buying a more appropriate work vehicle.

For more information and details on how to apply, go to worksafe.vic.gov.au/farmsafety.

Finance Minister Robin Scott said the scheme was making Victoria’s farms safer and saving lives.

“I urge anyone who is eligible for the rebate and has not yet applied to do so immediately. It’s a simple step that will help keep yourself, your family and your employees safe.”

Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford said it was encouraging to see so many Victorian farmers embrace the quad bike scheme and making farms safer for all.

“For farmers, their employees are often their loved ones, so safety always must come first.”