Volunteers are entitled to the same health, safety, and wellbeing protections as paid employees. Under model Work Health and Safety (WHS) laws in Australia, Landcare groups must eliminate or minimise risks so far as is reasonably practicable. Volunteers also have a duty to take reasonable care for their own safety.

The Mornington Peninsula Landcare Network (MPLN) is committed to ensuring that all of its member Landcare groups and the Landcare community enjoy a healthy, safe and productive volunteering experience.

To assist Landare groups with their day to day running, the MPLN has put together the following information including downloadable documents and editable forms.

Use the following tools to assist in understanding risk management, maintaining a safe work environment and reporting an incident:

Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

The MPLN has also developed a set of JSAs for particular tasks commonly undertaken by Landcare volunteers, including:

    • Weeding using hand tools
    • Planting using hand tools
    • Staking and Guarding
    • Observational monitoring
    • Watering
    • Mulching
    • Litter collection
    • Herbicide application with a dabber bottle
    • Herbicide spraying (non-powered sprayer up to 15L)
    • Gas burning*
    • Brush cutting (cord only)
    • Mowing (hand propelled)
    • Working near roadsides

These can be used as part of your overall risk assessment and planning process and are accessible here: Job Safety Analysis for MPLN volunteers

Please check that the activity you wish to perform is covered by your insurance policy. *Activities such as gas burning may not be covered by your current insurance, however LVI may be able to add it to your policy for a fee.

Please contact us if you need help accessing these resources or would prefer them emailed. If you’d like us to add additional resources please contact facilitator@mplandcare.org.au.