SafeWork NSW shuts down unsafe labour-hire sites after modern-slavery probe

SafeWork NSW carried out an unannounced “blitz” of labour-hire firms supplying workers to horticultural businesses on the Coffs Coast and in the Riverina, handing out a total of 44 notices after eight days of inspections at 28 sites and a two-day sweep of 32 additional operations. Five prohibition notices forced immediate work stoppages at Coffs Coast locations until identified safety risks—such as faulty plant machinery, electrical hazards and hazardous chemicals—are remedied.

The agency collaborated with the State Insurance Regulatory Authority to verify workers’ compensation, wages and classifications. The operation follows a state parliamentary inquiry that highlighted modern-slavery allegations and underpayment in the fruit-picking industry. SafeWork commissioner Janet Schorer said inspectors also discussed worker rights and trained staff to spot slavery indicators, while Work Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis pledged a coordinated approach and possible national labour-hire scheme. Information from the inspections has been forwarded to the Australian Federal Police, and more checks are planned throughout the picking season.