VIC employers face new obligations to manage psychosocial hazards

New Victorian workplace health and safety regulations are likely to be in place by December.

They will create new obligations for employers to identify and manage issues that are psychosocial hazards in the same way as physical ones. 

In a statement, Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll said ensuring people enjoyed a “psychologically safe” workplace was a common right. 

“Psychosocial hazards and mental injuries impact wellbeing and productivity across our community and economy, and it makes sense to do everything we can to prevent them,” Carroll said.

“Mental injuries can have a devastating impact on workers’ health, careers, and personal lives.

“It’s crucial that employers do everything possible to reduce the risks — just as they must control the risks of physical injury.”

In Victoria, work-related mental injuries have climbed from 9% of all WorkCover claims in 2009 to 18% in 2023-24. Last year, the total number of mental health claims recorded in the state was 16% of all claims.

According to the state government, the strengthened rules are consistent with recommendations made by the Boland Review, the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, and the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Mental Health.

The changes will also bring Victoria’s regulations in line with approaches other states and territories have taken to address people’s mental health at work. 

The revamped regulations are expected to be published alongside a compliance code guide and resources to help organisations develop prevention plans. 

Sam Jenkin, WorkSafe’s health and safety executive director, said employers would be given the right tools to create mentally healthy workplaces.

“These regulations will provide clarity for employers about what they need to do to keep their workers safe from psychosocial hazards and uphold their duties under the OHS Act,” Jenkin said. 

The ‘WorkWell’ program overseen by WorkSafe has engaged with more than 16,000 Victorian employers since its launch in 2017. The agency has supported employers with grants, learning networks, and resources.

This article was first published by The Mandarin.

Never miss a story: sign up to SmartCompany’s free daily newsletter and find our best stories on LinkedIn.