Big ideas for improving workplace mental health are being sought for the Andrews Labor Government’s WorkSafe WorkWell program.
Grants of between $250,000 and $1.2 million are available for new and innovative programs that will promote the mental health and wellbeing of workers.
The third round of funding continues WorkWell’s focus on ideas that assist vulnerable groups of workers, who are more likely to experience a work-related mental injury.
These groups include ageing workers, young workers, frontline workers and workers in industries in transition.
To be considered for funding, programs must be innovative, sustainable and able to demonstrate how they will make a lasting difference to a large number of Victorian workers.
The grants will be awarded from the Mental Health Improvement Fund, which is a key part of the $50 million WorkWell program launched in 2017.
Five organisations with ideas to support mental health and prevent mental injury and illness in the workplace received more than $3.3 million in funds in the first round of funding in August last year.
Another six organisations received more than $8.9 million in the second round of grants in April this year.
Those grants are now being used to develop programs to support the mental health of residential aged care workers, construction industry employees, primary school principals, public servants and health workers.
Online applications for round three grants close on 9 August, for more information visit .
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Workplace Safety Ben Carroll
“Supporting the mental health of workers is a priority – which is why we’re backing new and innovative ideas to address the stress that Victorians face at work every day.”
“We know there are more good ideas out there, and we are encouraging organisations across Victoria to put forward new and innovative initiatives and projects that support workers’ mental health.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
“Too many people experience mental health challenges in the work place. We’re always looking for new and innovative ideas to support businesses in ensuring their staff stay happy and healthy at work and these grants help us achieve that.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020