The Victorian Government has launched an initiative to support rehabilitation of injured workers and encourage safe practices in workplaces.

Return to Work Victoria will trial new programs and action plans to help workers while encouraging employers to provide suitable and accommodating job opportunities for returning staff.

It will also examine ways to prevent accidents and help workers adapt as they return to employment.

As part of the launch, the Victorian Government has opened a support hotline for callers experiencing work-related stress and burnout, and an initiative to provide tailored advice for small and medium businesses to improve mental wellbeing.

“Establishing Return to Work Victoria delivers on our promise to provide dedicated support for workers that’s focused on injury recovery and helping people return to work safely,” Victorian WorkSafe Minister Danny Pearson said. 

“These changes mean Victorian workers will continue to get the help they need, when they need it – while also making sure employers get the right support to keep their workers safe.” 

Return to Work Victoria will have a budget of $50 million for its first three years, to be reviewed annually. A program committee, headed by Executive Director Jason Lardelli, has been established to offer recommendations and advice to WorkSafe Victoria.

“Return to Work Victoria is a significant investment in improving outcomes for injured workers and supporting businesses to create safe and healthy workplaces,” Mr Lardelli said.