SIRA launches new service to tackle workplace mental health

SIRA Launches New Mental Health Warmline for NSW Workers

A new mental health service enabling workers to access confidential and tailored phone-based support has recently been launched by the NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA). SIRA launches new mental health warmline called Hear2Talk, giving employees across NSW a direct line to trained peer-support workers.

The new service provides a safe space to talk with experienced mental health peer-support workers waiting to listen and offer support. This warmline sits alongside other workplace mental health and psychosocial policies designed to protect staff wellbeing.

Why This Service Matters for Workplace Mental Health

SIRA Chief Executive Adam Dent welcomed the launch of Hear2Talk, saying the warmline has come at the right time.

"As we navigate the current outbreak of Omicron, mental health is a challenge facing many people at work and in the broader community," Mr Dent said.

"Callers experiencing distress in the workplace will find an experienced peer waiting to listen and provide support through this helpline."

How the Hear2Talk Service Operates

Neami National, a community mental health support specialist, runs this service on behalf of SIRA. Neami NSW State Manager Peter Gianfrancesco said the new offering represents one way of tackling mental ill-health at work.

"We know that to continue providing the best possible care to others in the community, we need to look after ourselves. That's where the Hear2Talk team can help," Mr Gianfrancesco said.

"The Hear2Talk team are experienced mental health peer-support workers who understand unique challenges of working in community mental health."

"When calling the Hear2Talk service, people can expect confidential, accessible and tailored phone-based support to listen and help build resilience and confidence in managing challenging experiences and emotions."

Key Features of the Hear2Talk Support Service

• Confidential, phone-based peer support available to NSW workers
• Staffed by experienced mental health peer-support workers
• Focused on developing personalised strategies for resilience
• Complements broader workplace recovery and wellbeing services

This initiative follows a pattern seen across Australia, where regulators continue rolling out targeted services to address psychological injury risks. For example, Comcare launched a new program to fight workplace mental health stigma, while Queensland introduced a dedicated code of practice covering psychosocial hazards.

Supporting Employers and Employees Beyond the Warmline

Employers seeking practical tools can strengthen internal support services through clear policies and procedures. A well-drafted bullying policy helps establish expectations around respectful conduct, reducing psychosocial risks that contribute to poor mental health outcomes.

Managers can now access additional information on related initiatives, including a new iCare training program helping employers respond to workplace mental health. These services collectively give NSW businesses a stronger foundation for supporting staff wellbeing.

Organisations wanting to benchmark their approach against national standards may also find value in attending the Workplace Health and Safety Show, where mental health services and safety leaders share practical strategies.

Where to Learn More

Read the full story on the NSW State Insurance Regulatory Authority website for further details about eligibility and how to reach the Hear2Talk warmline.