Understanding the new Victorian Psychological Health Regulations

From 1 December 2025, all Victorian employers, regardless of industry or size, must legally conduct psychosocial risk assessments to manage workplace psychological hazards with the same rigor as physical risks. These hazards include bullying, excessive workloads, poor leadership, toxic cultures, and unclear roles — factors that can silently damage employee mental health if unmanaged.

The regulations require employers to identify, control, and regularly review psychosocial risks in consultation with employees and health and safety representatives, focusing on work design, systems, behaviours, and environment. This marks a significant step towards embedding psychological safety within workplace health and safety frameworks, aiming to reduce mental stress, harassment, and trauma in Victorian workplaces.

Meeting these requirements can also drive significant business benefits, including improved productivity, higher revenue, stronger employee engagement, and a healthier, more positive workplace culture. While all other states follow the WHS Act 2011, Victoria’s regulations set a higher standard, emphasizing stronger controls and consultation efforts.

How Forvis Mazars can help

Have you made plans to conduct these assessments in early 2026? If not, our People and Organisation Advisory team is ready to assist you in meeting these important new legal obligations. Contact us today to discuss your next steps.

Greg Halse - Partner	Anthony Blaney - Associate Director
+61 3 9252 0800	+61 3 9252 0800

Published: 1 December 2025

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Understanding the new Victorian Psychological Health Regulations

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