The Andrews Labor Government is backing residential aged care workers in Ballarat through a new program designed to support their mental health.

Minister for Workplace Safety Jill Hennessy today announced $1.27 million for a new Wellbeing Track and Change program, a partnership between Prevention United and Federation University Australia, who will work with staff and management at Ballarat Health Services.

The program will help improve the mental health and wellbeing of over 500 frontline workers in residential aged care services at 10 facilities across Ballarat.

The program will involve designing a digital monitoring and decision support system to improve the work environment and protect workers’ mental wellbeing.

If successful, Prevention United, Federation University and BHS will work with industry stakeholders and examine opportunities to scale up the program to other residential aged care organisations and sectors.

The Wellbeing Track and Change program is one of six programs sharing in $8.9 million from the Labor Government’s WorkWell program, which aims to promote mental wellbeing by changing workplace cultures and practices.

WorkWell’s programs have the ability to make a lasting difference to the lives of thousands of Victorian workers and their families and play a lead role in improving overall mental health and wellbeing in many workplaces.

Quote attributable to Minister for Workplace Safety Jill Hennessy

“Residential aged care workers look after our loved ones when they need it most – that’s why we’re looking after their mental health through this new program.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Disability, Ageing and Carers Luke Donnellan

“We’re backing residential aged care workers so they have the support they need to look after their mental health.”

Quote attributable to Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison

“Ballarat Health Services does a great job of looking after their workers, and this new program will boost their capacity to support the men and women who support our loved ones.”

Quote attributable to Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle

“We know our frontline health workers face both physical and mental challenges at work every day which is why this program is so important.”