Mental Health is Safety: VMHPAA Highlights the Need for Psychological Safety in Every Workplace
- Shane Warren
- Apr 27
- 2 min read
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
28 April 2025
Mental Health is Safety: VMHPAA Highlights the Need for Psychological Safety in Every Workplace
As conversations around workplace safety continue to grow, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) reminds employers, leaders, and organisations that mental health safety is just as critical as physical safety.
“A safe workplace isn’t just about hi-vis vests and fire exits, it’s about feeling seen, heard, and supported,” says Shane Warren, Chair of VMHPAA and a workplace mental health consultant with more than three decades of experience. “Psychological safety is what allows innovation, honesty, and wellbeing to thrive. Without it, we’re just surviving - not succeeding.”
Stress-related illnesses, burnout, workplace trauma, and unresolved conflict continue to impact Australian workplaces across all sectors. Creating mentally healthy work environments isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart investment in performance, culture, and retention.
The VMHPAA calls for:
Greater recognition of vocational mental health practitioners in workplace wellness initiatives
Mandatory psychological safety training for managers and team leaders
Proactive policies that prevent burnout, bullying, and mental health stigma
Access to ongoing mental health support for all employees, not just crisis response
“Healthy workplaces don’t happen by accident, they are built with intention, empathy, and the right expertise,” Warren adds. “It’s time to embed mental wellbeing into the culture of every organisation, not just tick a box.”
About VMHPAA
The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is the national peak body for professionals with vocational qualifications working across mental health services. From counsellors and psychotherapists to lived-experience workers and wellness coaches, VMHPAA advocates for standards, access, and recognition in every part of the mental health landscape.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren
Chair
VMHPAA
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