Following 40 incidents of injuries due to workplace violence in the Grampians in 2024, WorkSafe Victoria has launched a new campaign encouraging people to consider the toll of workplace aggression.

The ‘Don’t cross the line’ campaign features scenes of frustrated people venting their anger at workers in industries such as retail, hospitality, transport, education and healthcare.

WorkSafe Victoria recorded 973 claims for work-related injuries due to suspected aggression or violence last year, including 226 in regional Victoria.

There were 40 accepted claims in the Grampians region, which includes the Ararat, Northern Grampians, Horsham, Yarriambiack, Hindmarsh and West Wimmera municipalities.

WorkSafe executive director of health and safety Sam Jenkin said the number of Victorian claims had more than doubled in the past 10 years.

A 2023 survey of 4600 Australian retail and fast-food workers found 87 per cent had experienced verbal abuse from a customer, with more than half of respondents reporting it happened on a monthly, weekly or daily basis.

“We are calling on everyday people to stop and reflect on the way we all interact with workers, and challenge the belief that seemingly small acts of aggression are harmless,” Mr Jenkin said.

“Everyone has days where things don’t go to plan, but there is simply no excuse for taking your frustrations out by yelling, swearing or intimidating workers who are just trying to do their job.”

The campaign will run until June 30. Any worker who has concerns about the risk control in their workplace can call WorkSafe on 1800 136 089.

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