Queensland Energy Supplier Fined $300,000 for Powerline Fatality

Incident Overview

In late July 2020, a harvester operator was fatally electrocuted when the machine contacted or came into close proximity with an overhead powerline on farmland in Queensland. Five other workers at the site received electric shocks and were hospitalized. The incident resulted from a Queensland-based energy supplier’s failure to routinely inspect and maintain stay wires supporting a corroded power pole.

In November 2023, the Rockhampton Magistrates Court found the energy supplier guilty of a Category 2 offence under workplace health and safety legislation and imposed a $300,000 fine plus costs.

• Fatalities:
  • Deceased:
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• Deceased:

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) investigated this incident. Any workers, contractors or persons with information about powerline safety practices or similar near-miss incidents involving overhead lines and farm equipment are encouraged to contact WHSQ on 1300 362 128 or visit worksafe.qld.gov.au to report concerns.