this week in social inclusion and diversity

Workplace mental health guide launched

President of the Australian Human Rights Commission, Cathy Branson QC, has launched Workers with mental illness: a practical guide for managersat the Australian Employers Network on Disability Conference in Sydney.“Workers with mental illness: a practical guide for managers aims to help managers better understand mental illness, develop strategies that assist workers with a mental illness and ensure that their workplaces are healthy and productive,” President Branson said.

“We developed this guide because research conducted by the Australian Human Rights Commission showed that managers want to provide support to staff members who live with a mental illness, but often lack the confidence or skills to do so,” said President Branson.

The guide has been released after extensive consultation with the business community, trades unions, disability organisations, workplace safety bodies and employers.

Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Graeme Innes, said, “I believe, not only that all Australians have a right to work and are entitled to a safe and healthy workplace, but that there must be a commitment from everyone in the workplace – employers and workers – to achieving this.”

Commissioner Innes said he believed that Workers with mental illness: a practical guide for managers would help improve the capacity of managers and employers to manage OHS issues, treat all employees fairly and ensure safer workplaces for all Australians.

“During any year, approximately one in five Australian adults will experience a mental illness. It is our hope that this guide will assist managers to understanding their legal obligations while developing strategies that support their staff and reduce the incidence of illness in the workplace,” said President Branson.

The guide has been endorsed by the Fair Work Ombudsman, beyondblue: the national depression initiative, SANE Australia, the Mental Health Council of Australia, and supported by Safe Work Australia. Click here to go to the website and download the guide.