The Rise of Workplace Violence and Aggression: A Growing Concern in Australia
Employers are being called upon to adopt proactive measures to protect their workers from violence and aggression.
Recent reports from Safe Work Australia have highlighted a disturbing trend in Australian workplaces: a sharp rise in incidents of violence and aggression over the past five years.
This emerging issue poses significant challenges for employers and employees alike, particularly in high-risk industries.
The increase in workplace violence and aggression is attributed to evolving work environments and intensifying workplace stressors. Industries most at risk include healthcare, retail, and public-facing roles, where employees often interact with potentially volatile individuals.
In response to this growing concern, the Victorian Government has announced plans to introduce new legislation to better protect customer-facing workers in retail, fast food, public transport, and other sectors. This move underscores the seriousness of the issue and the need for targeted interventions to ensure worker safety.
Employers are being called upon to adopt proactive measures to protect their workers from violence and aggression.
This includes implementing comprehensive risk assessment procedures, providing de-escalation training, and ensuring adequate security measures are in place. Additionally, there's a growing recognition of the need to address the psychological impact of workplace violence and aggression.
The NSW Government has launched a $5.6 million strategy to help employers manage psychosocial risks and protect workers from psychological harms, which can often result from exposure to violent or aggressive incidents.
As this issue continues to gain attention, it's crucial for all stakeholders - including employers, employees, and policymakers - to work together in developing effective strategies to combat workplace violence and aggression.
This may involve improving reporting mechanisms, enhancing support systems for affected workers, and fostering a culture of respect and safety in all workplaces. By addressing this growing concern head-on, Australia can work towards creating safer, more secure work environments for all employees, regardless of their industry or role.
Source:
The Rise of Workplace Violence and Aggression: A Growing Conern in Australia - Safety News Australia - 5th Feb 2025
