The Victorian Government has launched the $17 million WorkSafe, WorkWell initiative.

The new fund will give grants to community, employee and industry organisations for new mental health and wellbeing programs aimed at vulnerable workers.

These groups include younger and older employees, and staff in frontline positions in healthcare, teaching and emergency services.

The funding is intended to back programs covering large numbers of workers, offering solutions to address organisational causes of mental health issues.

“Bosses have the power to make work great for their employees – that includes looking after their mental health,” said Victoria’s Minister for Finance Robin Scott.

“I urge organisations to dream big, and apply for a grant to make these ideas happen.

“Victorians deserve workplaces that put time and effort into keeping them well.”

The program includes an online hub to link employers to relevant research, tools, information and support to build a mentally-healthy workplace.

Grants will be offered in three rounds, with expressions of interest for the first round being accepted now.

More information is available here (PDF).