HR Heartbeat: Addressing aggression, workplace safety benefits, and…

Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we look at the week’s most pressing HR and employment relations stories. With over 20 years’ experience in professional services, I give my opinion on current trends impacting your business, as well as my own personal commentary on all things HR and employment relations.

Crossing the line: a community issue
You might have seen the Victorian Government’s new campaign, Don’t Cross the Line, which aims to curb aggressive and violent behaviour towards workers in public-facing roles. It’s not just about asking people to be nice—it’s about changing the culture around how workers are treated.

It’s alarming to learn that almost 1,000 Victorian workers were seriously injured last year due to work-related aggression or violence. That’s not just a statistic—that’s real people coming home bruised, both physically and emotionally. The campaign’s message is clear: aggression in the workplace is a community problem requiring a community response.

For business owners and leaders, it’s a call to action. We must take every opportunity to set the standard for respectful interactions and provide staff with the support they need when dealing with difficult situations. Simple measures—like putting up informative posters from the WorkSafe Victoria campaign—can make a difference. But that’s just the beginning. We need a broader commitment to training staff on conflict resolution and equipping them to manage hostile situations safely.

Opening up to address workplace stress
Unfortunately, the aggression issue is just one piece of a larger puzzle. A recent study by Workplace Options highlights the persistent factors that undermine psychological safety at work—issues like job performance pressure, work-life imbalance, and excessive workloads.

Psychological safety isn’t just about having a friendly atmosphere; it’s about creating an environment where people feel safe enough to voice their concerns without fear of backlash. Open communication is critical. It’s about moving beyond corporate jargon and one-way announcements—making it clear that feedback will be heard and acted on.

One of the best ways to support mental wellbeing is by providing access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). They give staff a confidential outlet to discuss their challenges and get the support they need—something every workplace should consider.

A safer workplace isn’t just a nice-to-have
And then there’s the tragic reminder that workplace safety needs to be a top priority—always. The recent $400,000 fine issued to Hay Australia Victoria after a fatal machinery incident is just one example of what can go wrong when safety takes a back seat. These fines aren’t just financial—they’re a stark reminder that human lives are at stake here.

The case also highlights a vital point: most incidents are preventable with the right precautions in place. Conducting thorough risk assessments, maintaining equipment, and investing in proper training are essential, not optional.

And that’s a wrap from me. Tune in next time for my take on the latest headlines and
employment law stories, helping keep your business ahead!