In the final newsletter for the year, we recap key psychosocial cases/moments in 2024. There's one key insight from all of this you can take into 2025 that we share at the end.
Return to work figures in Victoria
WorkSafe Victoria's Annual Report revealed return to work figures for mental health injuries. It's almost 50/50 that the person doesn't return to work with mental health injuries compared to 80% for physical injuries.
Minderoo issued improvement notice
Minderoo (Andrew & Nicola Forrest's philanthropic arm) was issued an improvement notice after it was reported that Minderoo did not notify SafeWork of an employee's absence of more than 10 days to deal with psychosocial trauma. WA regulations require workplaces to self-report a psychological injury that requires more than 10 days off work.
First prosecution under current psychosocial legislation in WA
WorkSafe commenced prosecution against Bunbury Regional Prison over psychological injury to a former employee. It is the first time WorkSafe has taken prosecution action over psychosocial issues under the current legislation. Maximum penalty is $3.5 million.
Aus Gov introduces Code of Practice with three new hazards
The Australian Government approved a new code of practice introducing three new psychosocial hazards. These are:
- Fatigue
- Intrusive surveillance
- Job insecurity
Looking ahead to 2025 - key insight
One of the key themes we noticed in 2024 was psychosocial cases were often linked to claims of an absence of visible leadership or poor leadership behaviour. Companies had policies and rules in place but it was leadership behaviour that exposed them to risks.
As we enter 2025, this is a good area for organisations to focus on. A present leadership team, checking in with workers, listening and responding to feedback might be the best defence against claims and penalties.
