Sole Trader Gets Community Corrections Order After Fatal Fall

What happened?

A 29‑year‑old sole trader, operating as Big Basa Constructions, was handed a one‑year Community Corrections Order but without conviction in the Melbourne County Court today. That’s after he pleaded guilty to failing to ensure a safe workplace free from health risks. The court also ordered 100 hours of community service and a $10,000 fine.

The tragic incident

Back in September 2022, the worker a 23‑year‑old was helping carry steel lengths on the first floor of a townhouse site in Glen Waverley. He fell three metres through an unprotected stair void to the concrete below. He suffered serious head injuries and later died in hospital.

WorkSafe Victoria investigation found no guardrails installed around the stair voids and the ladder used did not extend past the first‑floor level.

What this means

This case is a sobering reminder that even if you’re flying solo, you’ve still gotta follow safety rules. As someone who values things done right and ahead of time, this highlights how vital basic safety steps—like putting up guardrails can be life‑saving.

Seems the court weighed everything: the breach, the outcome, the individual’s role, the remorse, and that guilty plea. That’s why the community corrections order was given but no conviction recorded.

TL;DR

• Sole trader got a 1‑year Community Corrections Order, 100 hours community work, and $10k fine, without conviction (21 Aug 2025)
• A 23‑year‑old worker died after falling three metres through an unguarded stair void (Sept 2022)
• Investigation found missing guardrails and an insufficient ladder