When everything’s running smoothly, it’s tempting to think the risk has passed. But that calm is often the result of prevention working exactly as it should. Here’s why it’s crucial to stay vigilant, even when things feel fine.

A recent case shows that job transfers, even if reasonable, can still lead to liability if the new role harms an employee’s health. In Spicer v Tamworth [2025], the court found it wasn’t the transfer itself, but the post-transfer conditions that caused psychological injury, a key lesson for employers managing workplace changes.

At this year’s TalentX, we delivered a session on how businesses can prevent and prepare for mental health claims, because responding after the fact is already too late. With mental health conditions now making up 9% of serious workers' compensation claims, and costs rising fast, it's critical to understand your WHS obligations, address psychosocial hazards early, and equip leaders to respond with clarity and care. Here's what we covered, and why it matters more than ever.

Many recruitment agencies assume they’re off the hook for WHS responsibilities in "margin-only" placements, especially when the host pays the temp directly. But a recent conversation I had with a SafeWork NSW inspector confirms otherwise: agencies are still PCBUs under WHS law, and payment structure doesn’t change that. Here’s what you need to know, and how to respond when clients try to push back.

AI tools can draft legal documents quickly and affordably—but are they truly safe for recruiters to rely on? Discover the benefits and real risks of using AI for contracts, and why expert legal support still matters in the recruitment industry.

After years of collaboration, we’ve merged: Risk Collective and Martin Richardson’s legal practice are now officially one team. This means recruiters can now access a full suite of legal, WHS and compliance support—all under one roof, with a deep understanding of how recruitment really works. Practical, jargon-free and built to help you stay ahead.

We often focus on what goes wrong in WHS—but what happens when things go right? This story from one of our on-hire clients is a reminder of how proactive communication, collaboration, and expert guidance can prevent risk and build confidence across the board.

The Wright v Findex decision is a clear warning to employers: feedback and performance conversations can cause serious harm if not done properly. From aggressive comments to lack of process, what starts as a routine discussion can quickly become a legal liability. This article unpacks the case, the psychosocial risks involved, and how Risk Collective helps employers take a safer, more integrated approach.

Customer aggression is on the rise, creating serious risks for frontline workers and businesses. With traditional training falling short, Risk Collective and Start Beyond have partnered to deliver MINACA VR — Australia’s first immersive VR training solution for managing customer misbehaviour. Learn how this innovative approach is transforming workplace safety across industries.

Upcoming Changes to Workers' Comp in Victoria: What Employers Need to Know
A new Bill introduced in March 2025 could reshape the way Victorian businesses manage return-to-work (RTW) obligations. The Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill 2025 proposes mandatory training, paid support, and enforceable obligations for RTW Coordinators — with hefty penalties for non-compliance.

A recent WHS prosecution involving both a host employer and on-hire provider has put the spotlight back on shared responsibilities in labour hire. This case reinforces that duties under WHS law aren’t optional—or transferable.

As NSW rolls out mandatory psychological first aid (PFA) training under its Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy for First Responders, there’s a clear message: psychosocial support must move beyond crisis lines and pamphlets. This blog explores how recruitment and on-hire businesses — and indeed, any employer — can take practical steps to embed mental health support into everyday operations.

NSW’s new psychological first aid (PFA) mandate underscores the need for businesses to proactively manage psychosocial risks under WHS legislation. This includes identifying hazards, implementing controls like workload planning, and providing support systems. Relying solely on Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) isn’t enough. Integrating Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) into daily operations offers accessible, peer-led support and helps businesses shift from a reactive approach to one focused on prevention and care.

Victoria is set to introduce dedicated Occupational Health and Safety (Psychological Health) Regulations in December 2025, aligning with national standards. While key administrative proposals have been dropped, employers will still need to manage psychosocial risks systematically. Here’s what’s changing, what remains, and how to get prepared.

A Victorian business has been fined $90,000 after failing to prevent workplace sexual harassment, highlighting the critical importance of having workplace policies and training in place. The case underscores legal and financial risks for employers who neglect their duty of care in managing psychosocial hazards.

In a landmark case, Western Sydney Local Health District is facing WHS charges for exposing workers to psychosocial risks during a mishandled workplace investigation. SafeWork NSW alleges failures in organisational justice and grievance resolution—signalling a growing regulatory focus on how employers manage psychological risks in the workplace.

As governments move to mandate a return to the office, the future of remote work remains uncertain. With 36% of Australians still working from home, employers must navigate shifting political pressures, evolving workforce expectations, and complex legal obligations—while finding ways to preserve flexibility and compliance.

Early intervention in workers’ compensation is key to lowering costs, reducing premiums, and improving employee recovery. Discover how proactive claim management can protect your business and support your workforce.

Access our free webinar recording to learn how to implement Queensland’s mandatory Sexual Harassment Prevention Plan ahead of the 1 March 2025 deadline. Plus, join our Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney to support workplace well-being. Secure your spot today!

On 11 February 2025, WorkSafe Victoria published details of a case that highlights the serious responsibilities on-hire providers have for worker health and safety—both physical and psychological—when placing workers at host workplaces.