MEDIA STATEMENT: Honouring Queenslanders on Workers’ Memorial Day 

Honouring Queenslanders on Workers’ Memorial Day 

• Workers' Memorial Day honours those who have lost their lives, been seriously injured, or fallen ill due to their employment.
• The day highlights the preventable nature of workplace incidents and disease.
• A reflective ceremony to remember workers was held today. 

The Crisafulli Government is delivering on its commitment for Queensland workers to have adequate protections, fair conditions and a safe workplace, as Queenslanders stopped today for Workers’ Memorial Day. 

Workers’ Memorial Day is an annual time to reflect, and remind all Queenslanders of their right to work safely and go home safely. 

The Queensland Workers’ Memorial and Honour Roll commemorates Queensland workers who have lost their lives in work-related incidents, diseases, or illness. 

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations Jarrod Bleijie today attended an event in commemoration. 

Deputy Premier Bleijie said Workers’ Memorial Day was an important and solemn occasion. 

“One life lost at work is one life too many,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said. 

“We also think of the family members, colleagues and friends of those who die or are injured at work, and the devastating impact workplace accidents have. 

“Every person should feel safe at their workplace and have the expectation they will return home safely at the end of the day. 

“It is so important that everyone in the workplace thinks about the role they can play in keeping workers and the public safe.” 

Safety Advocate, Dan Kennedy attended the memorial breakfast ceremony in Brisbane, reflecting on his own personal loss and honouring the memory of his son, Dale. 

“I wouldn’t wish losing someone you love on anyone; it takes a lot out of you,’’ Mr Kennedy said. 

“The pain doesn’t stop but a memorial day, Workers’ Memorial Day, provides a day for the people still here to unite, feel support and reflect with those who have experienced something similar. 

“Our son Dale didn’t return home from work. He was only 20 years old, with a young child. Dale was electrocuted while working in a ceiling space as a fourth-year apprentice. 

“Speaking with workers in Queensland gives me a sense of purpose, as so many workplace incidents could be avoided. 

“We need to normalise speaking up when something doesn’t seem right and listen when someone in a workplace expresses concern.”