The aim of the briefings was to provide employers with a better understanding of workplace mental health issues and how to address them. The interest in these briefings, run in partnership with the Achievement Program for Workplaces, highlights an increased awareness and need for information from employers.

This is also reflected in the newly published  2017 Indicators of a Thriving Workplace Survey, the latest research produced by SuperFriend, a national health foundation focused on creating positive, healthy and safe working environments where every employee can be well and thrive. This research measures the current state of workplace mental health and wellbeing in Australia. 5,000 business owners, managers and employees in small, medium and large organisations from different industries and locations across Australia were surveyed.

The results showed that 46% of those surveyed believe mental health and wellbeing is a big problem in their business and of these just 20% believe the issue is being addressed.

When asked what is preventing employers taking action, 49% believe that employers have a lack of understanding around mental health and wellbeing issues, 42% believe managers lack skills and training to address mental health and wellbeing issues and 34% believe employers don’t know where to start. 1 in 3 still believe stigma prevents employers talking action to promote mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

To assist, in 2018, the Victorian Chamber is extending its mental health and wellbeing offerings to provide 7 different scheduled training courses to meet employers’ needs. Our training courses are:

• The accredited 2 day Mental Health First Aid course, now also offered in a blended format – a mixture of online training followed by 4 hour face-to-face training.
• Mental Health First Aid for the Suicidal Person (4 hours)
• Mental Health Fundamentals for Executives (2 hours)
• Mental Health Fundamentals for Managers (2 hours)
• Mental Health Fundamentals for Employees (2 hours)
• Mental Health Masterclass for HR and WHS Professionals (1 day)

These courses are in addition to the existing Mental Health Check consulting service which helps employers identify and address workplace mental health risks and opportunities for promoting positive mental health.

If you would like to discuss how our experts can assist you in managing mental health in your workplace, please contact us on 03 8662 5333 or hsw@victorianchamber.com.au