Member for Coffs Harbour Andrew Fraser said the first stages of the package have been launched, including a new workplace intervention program, a website with free support and resources and additional funding to help drought-affected farmers.

“About one in six workers will experience significant mental illness in any four week period and the Coffs Coast is no different,” Mr Fraser said.

“It often means time off work, which can have a big impact on families, businesses and the entire community. This is why we are taking this important action.”

The new initiatives include:

·         A website, which has free support and resources for managers and workers about workplace mental health;

·         Access to free, tailored SafeWork NSW training for at least 3,600 managers around NSW to improve awareness and support of mental illness;

·         A program of Mentally Healthy Workplaces Ambassadors, including Landcom, led by John Brogden, to raise awareness of the importance of workplace mental health; and

·         A funding boost of $100,000 for the Virtual Psychologist service, which will give an additional 1,100 farmers access to critical psychological counselling support in real time.

Mr Fraser said this was the first stage of the $55 million Mentally Healthy Workplaces strategy.

“This is the single biggest investment in workplace mental health in the country’s history,” Mr Fraser said.

“By improving mental health locally we can reduce absenteeism, improve the productivity of businesses and grow the local economy. The strategy was developed following broad consultation and will help to create a stronger, better future for all families in the area.”

Visit : https://bit.ly/2yWtypS or https://bit.ly/2yTPemz or call SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50.