More SafeWork inspectors welcome, but workplace mental health requires meaningful reform
Australians for Mental Health has welcomed the New South Wales Government’s move to bolster its SafeWork NSW workforce with 51 news inspectors.
The state government announced the new roles as part of its “Irreplaceable” safety campaign launch, with around half of those new recruits to focus on psychological safety at work.
“Stronger enforcement to ensure our workplaces are not just physically but psychologically safe is absolutely an important part of solving this mental health crisis. But 20 new psychosocial-focussed inspectors and five investigators won’t be able to save a broken system,” Australians for Mental Health Chief Executive Chris Gambian said.
The state government has come under fire from mental health experts and unions in recent months for its proposal to overhaul workers’ compensation which would have made it harder for people with psychological injuries to get long-term support.
“Some jobs are extremely tough. Challenging work environments are a reality for many, including for our nurses, paramedics and, increasingly, our teachers too.
“Making it harder for people to get the help they need when they are at their lowest is not the answer. Looking at how we design workplaces and how we protect people from the beginning is the bigger picture reform we need, Chris Gambian said.
Australians for Mental Health is urging the New South Wales Government to consider whole-of-system reform, looking at designing workplaces where wellbeing is at the centre, making all employers accountable for psychological safety, and by providing timely support for workers who are struggling so they can get back on their feet.
“Inspectors spot hazards, but systemic change can help stop them from happening in the first place.
“We can’t expect people to thrive when they are dealing with ridiculous workloads and toxic cultures. If we don’t see major workplace reforms, we will continue to see psychological injury claims rise,” Chris Gambian said.
In its submission to the state government inquiry into the workers’ compensation overhaul, Australians for Mental Health called for major reforms including:
• Design jobs to meet workers’ wellbeing needs, including those with pre‑existing conditions
• Hold employers accountable for maintaining psychologically safe workplaces
• Resolve workplace relationship issues quickly and focus on rebuilding trust rather than litigating
• Provide adequate interim supports so distressed workers can focus on recovery
• Ensure long‑term care is available for those who need it
Australians for Mental Health is a national grassroots movement campaigning to challenge the policies, structures and attitudes that are harming mental health, and to reshape Australia as a place where everyone’s wellbeing is a top national priority.
Media contact: Kathleen Ferguson - 0421 522 080