The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) is set to face trial following charges related to the suicide of one of its inspectors. In September 2023, WorkSafe charged the VBA, accusing the organisation of neglecting the inspector’s wellbeing prior to their death in May 2022. Allegations include the VBA’s refusal to reassign the inspector to a different supervisor, as well as ongoing performance and redundancy processes that purportedly contributed to their mental distress.
WorkSafe contends that the VBA should have been aware that these actions posed a risk of psychological harm to the inspector. The charges include engaging in conduct that recklessly endangered the inspector’s safety, alongside another charge for failing to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
After a three-day committal hearing, Magistrate William Parker determined there was enough evidence for the VBA to face trial concerning the workplace safety charge. However, he dismissed the charge related to reckless conduct, concluding that a jury would be unable to find the VBA guilty of that accusation.
During the proceedings, a representative for the VBA entered a plea of not guilty to the remaining charge. The trial is scheduled to take place in the Victorian County Court, with a directions hearing planned for April.
For those seeking support, Lifeline is available at 13 11 14, and Beyond Blue can be contacted at 1300 22 4636.