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World Day for Safety and Health at Work: Workplace Safety Must Include Mental Health

MEDIA RLEASE / AWARENESS STATEMENT

For Immediate Release

28 April 2026


World Day for Safety and Health at Work: Workplace Safety Must Include Mental Health
World Day for Safety and Health at Work: Workplace Safety Must Include Mental Health

On the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) reminds employers and policymakers that a truly safe workplace includes psychological safety, not only physical protections.


Workplaces are where Australians spend a significant portion of their lives. While hard hats, compliance checks, and safety protocols are essential, mental health risks such as chronic stress, bullying, burnout, workload pressure, harassment, and job insecurity can be equally harmful.


VMHPAA Chair Shane Warren said:


“A safe workplace is not just one where accidents are prevented, it is one where people feel respected, supported, and able to speak up without fear. Psychological safety strengthens performance, reduces turnover, and protects long-term wellbeing.” Shane Warren said.

The economic and social cost of poor workplace mental health is significant, contributing to absenteeism, presenteeism, compensation claims, and workforce disengagement. More importantly, it affects families, communities, and long-term health outcomes.


Creating mentally healthy workplaces requires:


  • Leadership that models respectful behaviour

  • Clear reporting pathways for psychosocial risks

  • Workload management and realistic expectations

  • Early intervention and access to support

  • Policies that actively prevent harassment and discrimination


VMHPAA Secretary Susan Sandy added:


“When employees feel safe both physically and emotionally, they thrive. Healthy workplace cultures are built intentionally. They don’t happen by accident.” Susan Sandy added.

World Day for Safety and Health at Work is an opportunity to move beyond compliance and towards culture, to recognise that mental wellbeing is not an add-on, but foundational to safe and productive environments.


Healthy workplaces protect both bodies and minds.


Media Contact:

Shane Warren, Chair

Susan Sandy, Secretary

Philip Armstrong, CEO




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