SafeWork NSW Deploys 20 Psychosocial Safety Inspectors
SafeWork NSW has expanded its inspectorate with 20 new psychosocial-focused inspectors as part of a state government investment in workplace mental health.
The following is an abridgement of an article originally published by NSCA Foundation.
Inspectorate Expansion
SafeWork NSW has deployed 20 new psychosocial-focused inspectors, part of a broader addition of 51 inspectors that increases the statewide active inspectorate by more than 12 percent.
According to the NSCA Foundation, the deployment is funded by a $127.7 million state government investment into SafeWork NSW over four years, which falls under a $344 million Workplace Mental Health package.
Role and Expertise
The new inspectors possess backgrounds in psychology, workers' compensation, anti-bullying, youth mentoring, and trauma-informed approaches. Their responsibilities include issuing on-the-spot fines, responding to reported psychosocial incidents, developing resources, and acting as a primary contact for workplace mental health concerns.
The expanded inspectorate will conduct proactive compliance visits to ensure employers manage psychosocial hazards, such as excessive workload and bullying, in accordance with the Work Health and Safety Regulation.
Official Statements
SafeWork NSW Commissioner Janet Schorer stated the expansion aims to strengthen the early detection of psychological risks and enable timely interventions.
"Recognising and managing both physical and psychological risks is an essential part of creating safe, healthy and productive workplaces," Schorer said.
NSW Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis stated that the initiative focuses on prevention, noting that early management of psychosocial hazards is intended to result in fewer injuries and disputes.
