Remembering injured workers
On 25 April, tens of thousands of Australians can be expected to turn out to ceremonies to remember those killed and injured in war, especially during WWI.
But there is another “war” that is going on in Australia each and every year - sometimes dramatically, sometimes silently. Its battlegrounds are unsafe workplaces and unsafe work practices and its victims are the thousands of Australians who are injured, often fatally, in the course of going about their ordinary working lives.
Already this year, 44 Australians have died as a result of accidents at work.
Over the last decade, the average number has been over 300. Each year, thousands more die of work-related illnesses like cancer and mesothelioma.
April 28 is the day when such workers are remembered, both in Australia and internationally. And it is a day when the labour movement recommits to fighting for stronger health and safety protections.
Check out your local trades and labour council for information about activities in your state or contact your state CWU branch for information.
