Worksafe Victoria Board Chair

VIC Premier

WorkSafe Victoria’s Board Chair John Merritt will finish up in the role following nearly three years of guiding the organisation through one of the most challenging periods for Victorian workplaces.

His expertise has been invaluable in a critical time for WorkSafe Victoria, as it supports businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic, manages rising mental injury claims, overhauls the management of complex claims and addresses the impacts of sexual harassment in workplaces.

Mr Merritt came to his role as Chair of the Board with more than 20 years’ experience working in senior government leadership.

He previously led both VicRoads and the Environment Protection Authority, and was executive director of health and safety at WorkSafe Victoria. He is currently a non-executive board director at the Transport Accident Commission.

In recent years, WorkSafe Victoria has been a national leader in its work to help those impacted by silicosis and similar occupational diseases, as well as implementating a provisional payments scheme to ensure workers do not have to wait for urgent help when they suffer a mental injury.

The Victorian Government thanks Mr Merritt for his leadership and his commitment to keeping Victorians safe at work, and wishes him well in his future endeavours.

An Expression of Interest for his replacement has been launched today.

As stated by Minister for Workplace Safety Ingrid Stitt

“John Merritt has provided the WorkSafe Victoria Board with strong leadership during a challenging period for this organization – and we thank him for all that he has done for Victorian Workers.”

“I wish Mr Merritt well in his next endeavours and his ongoing contribution to Victoria.”

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