Australian Regulations on Psychosocial Hazards – what you need to know

SafeWork Australia has published in 2022 its finalised national model Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) Code of Practice for managing psychosocial hazards at work. The code follows changes to the Model WHS Regulations which impose an obligation on PCBUs (persons conducting a business or undertaking) to monitor, eliminate or reduce as is practicable hazards to psychological health and safety in the workplace. Several states, including NSW, QLD, WA, SA, ACT and TAS, have published their own respective codes of practice. These codes are either now in effect or will be by end of this year (SA and ACT). Victoria opened consultation on an amendment to its WHS laws to impose a similar duty on PCBUs regarding psychosocial hazards. Our session will address the new legislation and give you practical insights regarding employer obligations and best practice in psychosocial hazards identification.

Content points:

1. Psychosocial hazards definition
2. Your obligations as employer - overview
3. Suggestions for first steps
4. A strategic approach to Employee Health, Safety and Wellbeing
5. Case Study Discussion
6. Q&A