EP#105/126: Revisiting ‘ADDRESSing psychosocial hazards at work’

Work with Purpose: A podcast about the Australian Public Sector

Trigger warning: themes of mental and physical abuse

Amaly Khalaf and Dr Steven Munns from the Australian Public Service Commission explore psychological safety in public sector workplaces – from the desk to the frontlines – on our third best-of episode of Work with Purpose 2024.

Creating workplaces which are both mentally and physically safe is a mission close to Amaly Khalaf’s and Dr Steven Munn’s hearts. On this episode of Work with Purpose, they talk to host David Pembroke, CEO of contentgroup, about how the public sector is working towards this – from exemplary and trustful leadership to processes grounded in evidence.

Amaly, principal psychologist and lead of the APS Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Unit, shines a light on the new ADDRESS program, designed to support public sector agencies and staff in building mentally healthy workplaces. Steven, assistant commissioner, Diversity & Inclusion Branch, then connects this to how psychosocial hazards play out at the frontlines – for example at Centrelink or veteran’s services – and what can be done to support staff exposed to aggressive or abusive behaviour.

Key tips:

1. Depending on what your staff are exposed to, you need to consider their different emotional well-being requirements. Have protocols in place.
2. Create a team environment where people can safely express their thoughts and concerns.
3. The ADDRESS model is there to support organisations – make sure to tap into the resources available to you.

Show notes:

• Compassionate Foundations | Australian Public Service Commission
• ADDRESS model | Australian Public Service Commission
• APS Census | Australian Public Service Commission
• Violence at Work: Reducing Assault and Abuse Experienced by Frontline Staff in Public Service Roles | Dr Steven Munns

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