Published: 22 February 2016
Author: Ryan Carlisle Thomas

Farmers want rebate if new quad bike law introduced

Quad bike safety is again in the spotlight with farming leaders calling for rebates if WorkSafe proceeds with plans to make rollover devices mandatory.

WorkSafe is considering stricter rules for the bikes and banning them in workplaces unless rollover protection devices are fitted.

The Victorian Farmers Federation wants farmers to be offered a $700 rebate on the cost of installing protection if laws are introduced.

The push for mandatory rollover protection devices comes as quad bikes continue to be one of the leading causes of fatalities on farms.

Safe Work Australia data shows there were 18 quad bike fatalities between January and October last year – the youngest a six-year-old boy killed in a rollover and the oldest a 86-year-old man killed in a collision involving a quad bike.

Farmers and employees should be aware that if they are injured in a farm accident they may be entitled to medical and like expenses, weekly compensation payments and lump sum compensation through WorkCover.

Compensation is also available for family members when a death on a farm occurs.

In certain circumstances, compensation may also be payable through the Transport Accident Commission.