NSW Resources Regulator releases compliance priority report on psychosocial awareness

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NSW Resources Regulator Releases Compliance Priority Report on Psychosocial Awareness

NSW Resources Regulator has issued its compliance priority report addressing psychosocial awareness across the state's mining sector. This report outlines findings from targeted assessments and sets clear expectations for how operators must manage psychosocial hazards going forward.

Below, we break down what this report covers, why it matters for workplace safety, and what mine operators need to do next.

What Does the Report Cover?

Report reviews specific assessments performed by Regulator at small mines during first half of 2024. These evaluations focused on identifying psychosocial hazards and harassment risks that could compromise worker wellbeing on site.

Regulator confirms it implements measures targeting psychosocial risk factors and sexual harassment within New South Wales' mining industry. Effort forms part of a sustained commitment toward upholding safety and welfare for every worker in the sector.

Why Psychosocial Hazards Matter in Mining Operations

Psychosocial hazards can affect workers just as significantly as physical dangers on site. Left unmanaged, these risks contribute to reduced morale, increased absenteeism, and long-term harm to mental health.

Mine operators bear responsibility for identifying, assessing, and applying appropriate controls to minimise harm arising from psychosocial hazards. Effective control measures require ongoing review, consultation with workers, and clear reporting pathways.

"Mine operators and workers are reminded that psychosocial or physical harassment and sexual assault represent an extreme form of unacceptable workplace behaviour," the Regulator said.

Addressing Harassment and Building Safer Workplaces

Harassment, whether psychosocial or physical, has no place at any Australian worksite. Sexual harassment in particular remains a serious compliance priority for the Regulator, reflecting broader industry efforts to eliminate unacceptable conduct.

Employers across construction, manufacturing, and mining sectors can strengthen their approach by reviewing existing human resources management plans and ensuring reporting mechanisms remain accessible to every worker.

Steps for Mine Operators to Reduce Risk

Organisations seeking to strengthen their approach to psychosocial risk should consider the following steps:

• Conduct regular risk assessments focused specifically on psychosocial hazards
• Implement control measures suited to identified risks, including reporting systems and support services
• Provide training so supervisors recognise early warning signs of harassment or distress
• Review and update human resources policies and procedures to reflect current obligations
• Document findings using tools such as a compliance evaluation report

Consistent monitoring helps ensure control measures remain effective as work environments evolve. Where new hazards emerge, operators should reassess risk profiles promptly rather than waiting for scheduled reviews.

Supporting Tools for Hazard and Compliance Reporting

Sites managing multiple hazard categories may benefit from standardised documentation. A hazard report form supports consistent recording of emerging risks, while a conformance report helps track adherence to regulatory obligations over time.

Read the full compliance priority report here.

Related Regulatory Updates

This report follows earlier updates from the Regulator, including the quarterly safety report released in 2024 and a subsequent quarterly safety report covering broader compliance priorities across the sector.

Staying informed on these releases helps safety professionals anticipate regulatory expectations and adjust workplace practices before issues escalate.

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