Promoting mental well-being for workers in Victoria

Promoting Mental Well-Being for Workers in Victoria

Victoria's Deputy Premier and Minister for WorkSafe, Ben Carroll, has officially declared that applications are now being accepted for WorkSafe's WorkWell Mental Health Industry Trials, which provide funding of up to $1.76 million over a three-year span to trial initiatives that aim to decrease mental health harm in the workplace and enhance psychological well-being and safety.

These trials form part of a broader push to help organisations develop mentally healthy workplaces through structured management practices, practical tools, and improved mental health policies and plans across sectors identified as high risk.

Which Industries Will Benefit?

The Victorian Government said the trials will target industries identified as having higher incidences of mental injuries, including:

• Construction
• Education and training
• Healthcare and social assistance
• Manufacturing
• Public administration
• Public safety and regulatory services

Each sector faces distinct workplace demands, so tailored management approaches will be essential for delivering meaningful outcomes. Organisations within these industries are encouraged to review existing safety frameworks alongside new trial initiatives, much like those outlined in resources such as the OHS Manual (Victoria).

Scale of Mental Injury Claims

Last year, more than 3,100 claims were accepted by WorkSafe from individuals who encountered mental injuries due to their employment. This figure highlights why proactive management of psychological hazards remains a priority for regulators and employers alike across Australia.

Community-wide awareness of workplace mental health continues to grow, prompting many businesses to seek dedicated support services and specialist coaching options as part of everyday care for their workforce.

How to Apply

Online submissions for industry trial applications will be accepted until 10:00am on Tuesday, June 24. Employers considering an application should review eligibility requirements early, given the competitive nature of trial funding and the management effort required to prepare a strong submission.

Organisations seeking guidance on building supportive systems can explore related services, including safety documentation and management tools designed for Victorian workplaces, such as the Architectural SWMS Pack for Victoria.

Why This Matters for Safety Professionals

Effective management of psychological risk requires more than compliance — it demands ongoing care, clear documentation, and reliable services that support employees through challenging periods. Businesses that invest early in mental health management often see stronger safety cultures and reduced claims over time.

For further context on regulatory changes affecting Victorian employers, see our coverage of new regulations for safeguarding workers' mental well-being and additional mental health resources for workers in Victoria.

Employers also benefit from understanding broader strategies for nurturing employee well-being at work, which complements WorkSafe's trial objectives and strengthens long-term management practices. Operational teams managing equipment-heavy environments may also find value in structured procedures like the SOP for Equipment Maintenance, ensuring physical and psychological safety measures work hand in hand.

Learn more here.