Learn how to support psychosocial safety and prevent Workers’ Compensation Claims
The ACT Work Health and Safety (Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work Code of Practice) 2023 requires employers to manage psychosocial risks, just as they would physical hazards. These risks – like high workloads, poor communication, or conflict – can affect mental health and wellbeing.
Beyond compliance, supporting mental health is simply good for business. Proactive leadership reduces risk, improves culture, and boosts performance.
Simple steps to support your team:
- Regular check-ins and feedback – encourage open, two-way communication. Checking in with employees frequently helps identify issues early and shows that their wellbeing matters.
- Manage workloads and expectations – ensure roles are clearly defined and that workloads are realistic. Avoid overload and last-minute demands.
- Offer flexibility – where possible, offer hybrid work, adjusted hours or duties to support work-life balance and individual needs.
- Promote support services – promote Employee Assistance Programs and make it easy and stigma free to access help.
- Train leaders – equip managers to recognise distress and respond appropriately.
- Build a respectful, inclusive culture – model positive behaviour and act early on issues.
- Involve staff in decisions – give people a say in how work is done.
Prioritising mental health strengthens your team and helps prevent costly Workers’ Compensation claims.
To learn more visit Worksafe ACT or contact your workers’ compensation insurer.
