Craig Newton

Craig is a Principal Lawyer VGSO, who acts for Government Departments and Victorian Public Sector clients in workplace and occupational health and safety matters and in regulation, administrative and disciplinary law.

Craig has practised for a number of years in workplace law practices, principally in occupational health and safety prosecution and defence litigation and advice. He also brings to his appointment many years of experience managing investigations for an occupational health and safety regulator.  As a result, he is a technical expert in occupational health and safety law and as well as being knowledgeable in criminal law and procedure. Craig focuses on understanding the specific needs of his clients and taking a strategic and pragmatic approach to achieve those needs.

A strong focus of Craig's OHS practice is on advising clients and presenting to audiences on current and emerging OHS issues including management of the risk of transmission of COVID-19, workplace vaccination and occupational violence.  He has acted in numerous OHS prosecutions, including defending charges on behalf of duty holders, advising witnesses and, whilst working in enforcement for a work health and safety regulator, undertook many investigations into workplace fatalities and serious injuries.  He has also advised a Victorian Public Sector client undertaking an OHS audit.

Craig is a skilled investigator who is able to apply his skillset to the management and conduct of workplace investigations, including those arising in particular statutory contexts.  His many years of experience have allowed him to develop an exceptional ability to engage sensitively with a wide range of investigation participants and he applies sound reasoning and principles to the outcomes of the investigations in which he is engaged.

Craig also brings to the role his experience gained in workplace law at a large professional services firm where he acted for and advised clients in proceedings in Federal courts and tribunals.  He has also had the privilege of serving as an Associate and Senior Administrator in the County Court of Victoria.  He has an excellent understanding of court rules, procedures and processes.