COURT BODY FINED $379K OVER DEADLY CULTURE

Court Services Victoria (CSV) has been fined around $379,000 because of a harmful workplace culture at the Coroners Court of Victoria. This culture contributed to the suicide of one worker and led to many others taking stress leave.

From at least December 2015 to September 2018, workers at the Coroners Court faced risks like exposure to traumatic materials, conflicts in their roles, heavy workloads, poor relationships, and bad behavior in the workplace. They made complaints about bullying, favoritism, verbal abuse, and more. Some workers even reported feelings of anxiety, PTSD, and stress.

Court Services Victoria admitted they didn't properly assess and address the psychological health risks to their employees. This case shows that a workplace's culture is linked to the mental well-being of its workers.

WorkSafe’s says to prevent work-related mental injuries, employers should:

  • Promote a positive workplace culture
  • Consult with employees to identify and address psychological health risks
  • Implement policies for reporting and responding to hazards
  • Check in with employees regularly and offer support
  • Manage workloads effectively
  • Train leaders to support employees
  • Listen to employee feedback during organizational changes
  • Inform workers about their rights if they become unwell
  • Provide confidential support for mental health and well-being
Share Tweet

RELATED

ASK RENATA
I’ve heard that 9-inch grinders have been banned on construction sites. Can you confirm this is true?
Read More
WORLD OHS CONGRESS: THREE PILLARS OF ACTION
The 23rd World Congress on Safety and Health at Work, has commenced in Sydney, with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) emphasising the urgency required to address work-related accidents and diseases.
Read More
COVID NUMBERS CONTINUE TO CLIMB
Victorian data taken from Department of Health Weekly Report 24 November 2023. The number of people in hospital with COVID-19 increased this week to a daily average of 325, up from 317 last week. The...
Read More