Funding boost to minimise work-related psychological hazards for aged care workers

Funding Boost to Minimise Work-Related Psychological Hazards for Aged Care Workers

The Centre for Transformative Work Design (CTWD) at Curtin University has secured $373,762 in grant funding from Safe Work Australia to explore ways to manage work-related psychological hazards affecting aged care workers. Safe and healthy workplaces remain a priority for this sector, where demanding roles can take a toll on both physical and psychological safety.

This two-year project will be led by Dr Daniela Andrei, Professor Sharon Parker, and Dr Jane Chong. Researchers aim to develop and implement work redesign solutions that optimise job demands while supporting safe, sustainable care delivery across aged care facilities.

Why This Research Matters for Aged Care Safety

Aged care staff face unique psychosocial hazards, from high emotional labour to unpredictable workloads. Addressing these psychosocial hazards contributing to work-related stress is essential for safeguarding health outcomes for both employees and the vulnerable people they support.

By redesigning job structures, the initiative seeks to create safer working conditions that reduce risk without compromising care quality. This aligns with broader efforts to strengthen compliance with workplace health and safety obligations across the aged care industry.

Supporting Safe Work Practices Through Evidence-Based Design

Work redesign solutions developed through this project could help employers meet compliance requirements more effectively while fostering safer, healthier workplaces. Facilities that prioritise safe systems of work often see improved staff retention and better care outcomes for residents.

Organisations looking to strengthen their own safety frameworks can benefit from reviewing supporting documentation such as a Fitness for Work Plan or a Fitness for Work Policy, both of which support safe work practices in physically and psychologically demanding environments.

Broader Context: Funding for Workplace Safety Initiatives

This grant follows similar national efforts, including a recent workplace safety funding boost for Victorian workers, demonstrating a growing commitment to safe, healthy workplaces across multiple industries. Employers and safety professionals can also explore related guidance, such as understanding when a Safe Work Method Statement is required, to ensure comprehensive safety compliance.

Initiatives like Safe Work Australia's funding announcement, alongside awareness efforts such as the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, reinforce a shared goal: building safer, more sustainable care environments for workers nationwide.

Source: Safe Work Australia website.