Psychosocial Safety- Introduction
- tcappola
- Oct 22
- 2 min read
Victoria's New Psychosocial Regulations (Effective 1 December 2025)
Employers must identify, assess, and manage psychosocial risks, treating them equally to physical hazards.
New Compliance Code will provide practical guidance for employers.
Regulations aim to reduce mental health-related WorkCover claims
Psychosocial hazards are now defined, encompassing job design, workloads, workplace behaviours, and environmental factors.
Employers are required to implement control measures based on risk severity, frequency, and duration.
Some states and territories have adopted these changes; Victoria has proposed similar regulations.
Refer to the regulator in each state for full details.
Increased Penalties for Non-Compliance
Maximum fines for breaches have significantly increased- See regulator site for more details.
Respect@Work Act and Positive Duty
Introduces a positive duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment and other psychosocial risks.
Requires proactive measures to ensure a mentally healthy workplace.
Aged Care Act 2024 (Commencing 1 November 2025)
Replaces the Aged Care Act 1997, focusing on the rights of older adults.
Introduces reforms based on the 2018–21 Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.
Key National Changes to WHS Legislation Regarding Psychosocial Hazards:
Introduction of Psychosocial Hazard Regulations: In June 2022, Safe Work Australia amended the model WHS Act and Regulations to formally introduce definitions of psychosocial hazards. These amendments require persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) to identify, assess, control, and review psychosocial risks, aligning them with the existing risk management framework used for physical hazards.
Publication of Model Code of Practice: A new model Code of Practice titled "Managing Psychosocial Hazards at Work" was published in July 2022. This code provides practical guidance to PCBUs on how to manage psychosocial health and safety risks at work, including steps to identify and control psychosocial hazards.
Adoption by States and Territories: While the model WHS laws are national, each state and territory in Australia must adopt them for them to have effect. As of 2025, jurisdictions have adopted these changes.
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