Australian construction workers are returning to safer sites, according to new work-related fatality data from Safe Work Australia, but industry leaders are being warned that progress must not lead to complacency.

Figures show 167 workplace-related fatalities were recorded in 2025, down from 188 the previous year. Construction was among several traditionally high-risk industries to record an improvement, alongside transport, agriculture and manufacturing.

The Australian Institute of Health & Safety (AIHS) says the decline reflects stronger safety leadership, better training and greater worker involvement across sectors like building and construction, but stresses that the risks on worksites remain significant.

AIHS chair Celia Antonovsky says every fatality is one too many, particularly in industries where workers are exposed to complex, high-risk environments every day: “Construction sites are dynamic, fast-moving workplaces and while it’s encouraging to see fatalities decline, even one death is unacceptable. These figures should be a call to action for the industry, not a reason to ease off.”

She says ongoing investment in trained Health and Safety Representatives (HSRs) is critical to maintaining momentum in construction safety, where early identification of hazards can prevent serious incidents.

“HSRs play a vital role on construction sites by giving workers a trusted voice, identifying risks early and making sure safety procedures translate into real action on the ground. When HSRs are trained and supported, sites are safer for everyone,” Celia says.

The AIHS states that continued improvements will rely on keeping safety front and centre as projects increase in scale and complexity, supported by ongoing training, professional development and strong safety culture across the building and construction sector.