Psychosocial Hazard Obligations for Australian Businesses in 2026

Psychosocial hazards are aspects of work design, systems of work, the working environment or workplace interactions that may cause psychological (and physical) harm. Common examples include high job demands, low job control, poor support, bullying, harassment, fatigue, remote or isolated work and exposure to traumatic events.

What changed

The model WHS Regulations were amended to include express duties for managing psychosocial risks, and these provisions have been adopted by the states and territories that use the model laws — on different dates, and in some cases with their own variations. New South Wales, for example, applies the hierarchy of controls to psychosocial risks through its own regulations.

In Victoria, the Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations commenced on 1 December 2025, alongside a compliance code. They set out specific requirements for employers, including limits on relying on information, instruction or training as the main control.

Check your regulator’s current guidance and code of practice for the exact requirements in your state or territory.

What a business should have in place

• A process to identify psychosocial hazards, including consulting with workers.
• A risk assessment that considers how often, how long and how severely workers are exposed.
• Controls that eliminate risks where reasonably practicable, or otherwise minimise them — focusing on how work is designed and organised, not just on training.
• A way to report and respond to concerns, including bullying and harassment.
• Regular review of controls, particularly after incidents, complaints or changes to work.

Small businesses are not exempt

The duty applies to businesses of all sizes. For a small crew, it can be as practical as managing hours and fatigue on long jobs, planning for workers on their own, and having a clear way to raise concerns.

We can prepare a Psychosocial Hazard Policy and supporting procedures as part of our Safety Policies & Procedures service. Get in touch.