Manage psychosocial hazards at work
WHS duty extends to psychosocial hazards — workload, bullying, harassment, role conflict.
Who must comply
All PCBUs (persons conducting a business or undertaking).
What triggers it
Conducting a business or undertaking with workers.
When due
Continuous WHS duty.
Evidence required
Risk assessment, consultation records, control measures, training, incident response procedures.
Max penalty
Industrial manslaughter penalties up to $20M (corporations) + 25 years prison (individuals) in some states for category 1 breaches
Summary
Model WHS Regulation 55A (adopted in most states) requires PCBUs to identify, assess, and control psychosocial hazards including high job demands, low support, role conflict, harmful behaviours, and exposure to traumatic events. Safe Work Australia's model code and state codes (e.g. Vic Compliance Code, NSW Code of Practice) set the standard.
Enforced by
Source legislation
Topics
Related obligations
- CWLTHPsychosocial Hazards Code of Practice (model + jurisdictional)PCBUs must manage psychosocial risk under WHS Acts + state codes.
- CWLTHComply with the respirable crystalline silica workplace exposure limit (0.05 mg/m³)From 1 December 2026 the 0.05 mg/m³ silica standard becomes a legally binding workplace exposure limit (WEL).
- CWLTHComply with Heavy Vehicle Chain of Responsibility (CoR)Every party in the heavy vehicle supply chain has a positive duty under HVNL.
- CWLTHHold a Construction Induction (White Card) before construction site workAll construction site workers must have completed nationally recognised induction training (CPCWHS1001).
- CWLTHMaintain Hazardous Chemicals Register + manifest (WHS Reg)PCBUs handling hazardous chemicals must maintain a register + (above threshold) a manifest.
- CWLTHAsbestos management — workplace + dwelling rules (state)Asbestos work requires licensed asbestos removalist + asbestos management plan.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with Manage psychosocial hazards at work?
- All PCBUs (persons conducting a business or undertaking).
- What triggers Manage psychosocial hazards at work?
- Conducting a business or undertaking with workers.
- When is Manage psychosocial hazards at work due?
- Continuous WHS duty.
- What is the maximum penalty for Manage psychosocial hazards at work?
- Industrial manslaughter penalties up to $20M (corporations) + 25 years prison (individuals) in some states for category 1 breaches
- What evidence is required for Manage psychosocial hazards at work?
- Risk assessment, consultation records, control measures, training, incident response procedures.
Source: https://safeworkaustralia.gov.au/safety-topic/managing-health-and-safety/mental-health. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.