Stress
Stress is the second most common cause of workplace compensation claims in Australia, after manual handling. Taking into account that many workers do not make claims in the first place, stress is a very serious workplace issue.
For an overview of job stress and OHS you can also watch our episode of the OHS Reps Live Show on the subject: https://www.youtube.com/embed/pJOUgLlNQ64
Employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace under section 21 of the OHS Act 2004 as well as the duty to provide adequate training and information for you to be able to perform your role safely. They also have the duty to monitor the conditions of the workplace to make sure they are safe under section 22 and the duty to consult on matters relating to health and safety under Section 35. The OHS Act empowers HSRs to take action on hazards that lead to work-related stress.
The new Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations 2025 also require your employer to eliminate or mitigate psychosocial hazards using a modified Hierarchy of Controls. WorkSafe publishes the Compliance code: Psychological health to guide employers in complying with their duties and obligations under the OHS Act and OHS Regulations.
Psych Health Standard
In 2020, VTHC developed the Psychological Health Standard as a tool for workers to protect workers with a risk management standard. The full standard is available to be downloaded.
OHS Reps resources
- What is work-related stress?
- Work Stress Questionnaire - OHS Reps
- Psych Health Survey Tool - OHS Reps
- Prevention Plan for Psychosocial Hazards - OHS Reps
- Hierarchy of Controls
- Legal standards for Stress
- Stress Action Plan for Reps
- Stress: Information and websites
- The Eight Hour Day - where has it gone?
- Work-Life Balance
- Job Stress in the Victorian Public Sector
WorkSafe Victoria resources
- Compliance code: Psychological health
- Psychosocial hazards in the workplace
- Prevention plans for psychosocial hazards template
- Psychosocial risk assessment tools
Safe Work Australia resources
Updated May 2026