Victorian WorkCover Minister Rob Hulls has unveiled a package of reforms aimed at reducing workplace deaths and injuries.

The new Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 includes an increase in the maximum financial penalty for putting a worker at risk, allowing first-time offenders to be sentenced to a maximum of five years. Volunteers will also be protected from liability under the new Act.

So far this year 27 Victorians have died from work-related incidents, and more than 30,000 others have been injured at work.

“The changes will deliver long-term social and economic benefits to Victoria by reducing the number of deaths, injuries and sickness in the workplace, and associated costs,” Mr Hulls said.

The changes stem from a review of the Occupational Health and Safety Act conducted by Chris Maxwell QC earlier this year. They will come into effect from July 1 next year.