Return to Work Victoria will provide grants of up to $500,000 for new programs to help mentally injured people re-enter the workforce quicker.

It says the grants are part of a $50 million investment and target a significant challenge in rehabilitation.

Recent data shows only 40% of workers with mental injuries return to work within six months of a workers’ compensation claim, compared with 73% of those suffering physical injuries. 

The grants will focus on early intervention programs – which work within the first 26 weeks after a claim – and industries most affected by mental injuries, including healthcare and social assistance, education, transport, construction and manufacturing. 

Return to Work Victoria executive director Jason Lardelli says the funding will back collaboration across sectors.  

“To help drive the improvements we need for injured workers, we need to bring new thinking, new ideas and new solutions to the table,” he said. “We know that we can’t do this alone. 

“Injured workers deserve a positive and speedy recovery, which is not only beneficial for the worker, but also for the people they love, their community, our business and workplaces.” 

Mr Lardelli encourages employers, self-insurers, unions and industry groups to apply for the initial round of grants.  

Applications are open until April 28. Click here for more information.