The official was commended for his 'strong leadership' amid a challenging time
WorkSafe Victoria Board Chair John Merritt is stepping down from his role, announced the organisation on Friday, after nearly three years with the organisation.
In his departure, the government expressed its gratitude for his leadership and commitment to Victorians.
"John Merritt has provided the WorkSafe Victoria Board with strong leadership during a challenging period for this organisation – and we thank him for all that he has done for Victorian Workers," said Workplace Safety Minister Ingrid Stitt in a statement.
The minister also lauded the outgoing board chair for his "strong leadership" amid a critical period for the organisation because of the pandemic and other emerging challenges.
"John Merritt has provided the WorkSafe Victoria Board with strong leadership during a challenging period for this organisation – and we thank him for all that he has done for Victorian Workers."
Under Merritt, WorkSafe Victoria supported businesses amid COVID-19, addressed rising mental injury claims, overhauled the management of complex claims, and addressed the impact of sexual harassment in workplaces.
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WorkSafe Victoria has also stepped up as a "national leader" in helping individuals affected by silicosis and similar occupational diseases in the recent years, according to the state government.
The organisation was also able to implement a provisional payments scheme over the recent years so workers can receive urgent help when they suffer from a mental injury, added the government.
Merritt had more than 20 years of experience in senior government leadership before stepping up as WorkSafe Victoria's chair.
He previously served as the executive director of health and safety at WorkSafe Victoria and led VicRoads and the Environment Protection Authority in the past.
Currently, Merritt is a non-executive board director at the Transport Accident Commission.
According to the government, an Expression of Interest for his replacement has already been launched.
