NSW Government Extends Mental Health Support to Additional Frontline Workers

The New South Wales (NSW) Government has launched a groundbreaking mental health initiative aimed at expanding support services to a wider range of frontline workers. Traditionally, mental health support programs in NSW have focused on emergency services personnel such as paramedics, police officers, and firefighters. However, under this new strategy, support will be extended to workers from the Forestry Corporation of NSW, National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Transport for NSW.

These workers often act as the first responders to traumatic incidents such as natural disasters, car accidents, and other emergencies. Their exposure to such distressing events can significantly impact their mental health, making them just as vulnerable as traditional emergency services personnel.

According to the NSW Government, the strategy outlines fifteen priority actions designed to enhance the mental health and wellbeing of these workers. Key components include:

• Psychological First Aid (PFA) Training: "Mandatory training for all employees, including managers, to better support individuals affected by emergencies or traumatic events by connecting them to appropriate support services." (NSW Government, 2025)

• Referral to Clinical Care: "Ensuring timely and appropriate clinical care referrals for employees impacted by traumatic incidents, providing access to necessary mental health resources." (NSW Government, 2025)

• Peer-Support Services: "Establishing peer-support services informed by evidence-based, trauma-informed training programs tailored to the specific needs of first responders." (NSW Government, 2025)

This initiative is being welcomed by various organisations. The Australian Workers Union has expressed strong support, particularly for including road and transport workers who are frequently the first on the scene at traumatic incidents. The union stated that "these workers deserve recognition and the mental health support that accompanies it." (Daily Telegraph, 2025)

The Black Dog Institute also praised the strategy, highlighting that it incorporates many of their recommendations, particularly the focus on tailored, evidence-based support and early intervention. They expressed optimism about assisting the government in implementing these actions to ensure first responders receive the highest standard of mental health support. (NSW Government, 2025)

Why This Matters

This initiative reflects the NSW Government’s commitment to preventing psychological harm and promoting mental health as integral components of a healthy workplace. By recognising the critical roles these workers play and providing them with tailored support, the strategy aims to foster long-term improvements in mental health outcomes within these sectors.

This expansion of mental health support services could serve as a model for other states and industries, particularly those where workers are routinely exposed to traumatic events.

If you’re a business leader or manager responsible for overseeing teams exposed to high-risk or traumatic situations, now is the time to ensure your workers have access to the right mental health support. Contact us today to learn how our training programs and resources can help you build a resilient, mentally healthy workforce.

Psychological First Aid (PFA)

Peer Support

NSW Government Extends Mental Health Support to Additional Frontline Workers.

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NSW Government Extends Mental Health Support to Additional Frontline Workers