The law requires all employers to create a safe working environment to minimise injury and illness in the workplace.
However Australian Bureau of Statistics show that during 2013 to 2014, over half a million people suffered a work-related injury or illness.
Some occupations are more dangerous than others but culturally and linguistically diverse workers are a high risk group.
Tim Nelthorpe says when an accident happens at work, the most important initial step is to fill out an incident report.
This ensures that everything is well-documented for the employee to claim workers compensation.
Workers compensation is a form of insurance payments to employees if they are injured or are sick due to their work.
The payment schemes are governed by states and territories and can include wages to employees if they are not fit for work and payments to cover medical expenses and rehabilitation.
Employers must also provide training and have the right tools and equipment to ensure workers can perform their duties safely.
Employees also have some responsibilities.
Workers should only use equipment once shown how to use it properly, not wearing the right safety equipment or not using it properly, taking short cuts or using your mobile phone while youre working.
Dave Noonan says temporary workers often dont report exploitation, bullying or unsafe practices at work for fear of being sent back to their homeland.
