Farmers Urged To Buckle Up In Side-By-Side Vehicles

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP today announced that the New South Wales Government has launched a new campaign urging farmers using side-by-side vehicles to wear seat belts following a spate of deaths across our State.

Mr Ward said that the campaign is focused on lifting on-farm safety following a rise in preventable deaths in side-by-side vehicles.

“These tragic accidents shouldn’t happen, and this is an important reminder to farmers that despite being the safer option, side-by-side vehicles can still be deadly if not used safely,” he said.

“Seven people across NSW have lost their lives in the last twelve months in side-by-side vehicle accidents, which may have been prevented if the right safety measures were taken.

“The NSW Government offers safety rebates to help farmers, including $2,000 for the purchase of a safer side-by-side vehicle, $600 for the purchase of an operator protective (rollover) device, $90 for the purchase of a compliant helmet and $500 for the purchase of a drone,” Mr Ward said.

The NSW Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson MP has encouraged all farmers to take advantage of the rebates available.

“It’s been a tough time for our farmers, which is why the NSW Government has made sure being safe is not cost prohibitive,” Mr Anderson said.

“I am urging all farmers to prioritise your own safety, and the safety of those who work with you, by using on-farm vehicles responsibility and with the correct safety gear.

“SafeWork NSW has also partnered with Tocal College to deliver free side-by-side vehicle accredited training,” Minister Anderson said.

For more information on safety, rebates and training, please visit the website at: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/hazards-a-z/quad-bikes-and-side-by-side-vehicles.