NEW regulations have been introduced for amusement ride operators following the death of Eugene Mahauariki at the Rye Carnival in 2017.
The Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (Amusement Structure) Regulations 2026 commenced on 29 July and introduced new design and item of plant registration and record keeping requirements.
The reform is a result of a coronial inquest after six-year-old Eugene Mahauariki died after being ejected from a ride at the carnival in April 2017.
WorkSafe Chief Health and Safety Officer Sam Jenkin said the new regulations are an important step for the carnival industry.
“For the first time, WorkSafe will have a complete picture of Victoria’s amusements industry and direct contact details for every operator – meaning we can quickly communicate important safety information to the right people when needed,” said Jenkin.
“The changes also strengthen our compliance and enforcement work, giving families confidence that every ride operating in Victoria is subject to rigorous oversight and is continuously meeting safety requirements.”
The new regulations require all rides operating in Victoria to have design registration (or have interstate design recognition), annual item-of-plant regulation, and a safety inspection by a qualified person before they can operate.
The regulations were developed after extensive consultation with various stakeholders and Jenkin said feedback helped ensure the reforms strengthen public safety while providing clear and practical requirements for the industry.
“We have also invested in upskilling our workforce, with existing inspectors undertaking refresher training on the new requirements and more inspectors being trained in amusement structures,” said Jenkin.
First published in the Mornington News – 4 August 2026
