Proposed Regulations on Psychological Harm – Update

In May 2022 I wrote a blog article stating that WorkSafe Victoria had set an ambitious timeline of 1st of July 2022 for the implementation of the Proposed OHS Amendment (Psychological Health) Regulations https://www.hazcon.com.au/blog/proposed-ohs-amendment--psychological-health--regulations

The date came and went without the new law being implemented and no sign of an accompanying Compliance code. This was very disappointing for a lot of people.

Recently, the Victorian Government has indicated that it will continue to review stakeholder feedback and progress the proposed regulations in early 2023.

WorkSafe has stated that it will continue to work closely with the Victorian Government to progress the proposed regulations, as it knows the importance of improving workplace psychological health.

The Government has outlined that further time is needed to consider feedback received via the extensive Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS) process. This process resulted in considerable feedback from unions, employers, specialists and community groups.

WorkSafe will also continue to work closely with the Victorian Government to develop the proposed psychological health compliance code (the code), supporting guidance and practical tools concurrently with the regulations.

When possible, further updates about the plan for implementation will be provided

Further information is available here on the WorkSafe website.

The Consultation process (including feedback) is available here https://engage.vic.gov.au/proposed-psychological-health-regulations