The agreement between WorkSafe Victoria and the VFF will fund the next phase of the project, which focuses on practical, in-person safety assistance for farm businesses.
The extension will allow the MOFS team to expand its advisory service, with specialists visiting farms to help identify hazards and support farmers to manage key risks.
Deputy Premier and WorkSafe Minister Ben Carroll said the funding was a direct response to what farmers had been asking for.
“An investment in farm safety is an investment in the people who keep Victoria running — and this project supports farmers to create safer work environments without the red tape,” he said.
“We’ve been listening to farmers who’ve asked for more in-person, tailored support from industry peers who understand the realities of farm life — and we’re delivering.”
Agriculture represents only two per cent of Victoria’s workforce but remains one of the state’s highest-risk industries.
Since 2021, the sector has recorded 33 workplace fatalities and more than 2458 serious injury claims.
WorkSafe chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said the numbers underlined why targeted support was essential.
“Farmers are the backbone of Victoria, powering our economy, supporting regional communities and keeping our shelves stocked — and we must do everything we can to help farmers stay safe while doing some of the toughest work there is,” Mr Jenkin said.
He added that real improvements came from “real conversations and real connections”, which helped WorkSafe and farmers understand barriers and work towards practical solutions together.
The next phase of MOFS will place particular emphasis on high-risk activities, including cattle handling and machinery use such as tractors, attachments, quad bikes and side-by-sides.
These areas account for more than a quarter of all farm injuries.
VFF chief executive Charlie Thomas said farmers had come to rely on the program since it began in 2020.
“Nothing beats in-person, tailored safety advice to your farm,” he said.
“The team will be busy conducting on-farm safety visits and I encourage all farmers to take advantage of the free resources on offer.”
