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LAWS HAVE CHANGED FOR AUSTRALIAN
FOOD BUSINESSES

Standard 3.2.2A is a recent addition to the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. This change means that from December 8, 2023, new requirements will be enforced for food businesses across all Australian states & territories.

If your business prepares and serves food then this change affects you.

The new requirements need to be met by any business that prepares or serves food in any Australian state and territory. Standard 3.2.2A outlines the need for a food safety management system within a business, by introducing the following three tools:

  1. Food Handler Training
  2. Food Safety Supervision
  3. Record Management

The specific tools that a business needs to implement is determined by the category of business.

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NEW PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH REGULATIONS
FOR VICTORIAN EMPLOYERS

 
Psychosocial hazards are a critical aspect of workplace safety and employee wellbeing that often go unnoticed. These hazards encompass the psychological and social factors within the work environment that can adversely affect an individual's mental and emotional health. They can manifest in various forms, including stress, harassment, bullying, burnout, and the general quality of the work atmosphere.
 
Chronic exposure to psychosocial hazards can lead to severe consequences, such as reduced job satisfaction, increased absenteeism, lowered productivity, and even long-term health issues.
 
Under the model WHS laws, a person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must manage the risk of psychosocial hazards in the workplace.
 
This may seem like an overwhelming responsibility but thankfully, there are several free resources available to help manage your workplace and ensure all employees feel safe, respected and comfortable in their job. Below are links to more information and free resources. 
 

For the workplace

Running a business can be tough, but you're not alone! Find mental health and wellbeing support, tips to help manage and reduce stress and advice on creating a healthy workplace at Business.gov.au

Effective measures to address psychosocial hazards include implementing clear policies against harassment and discrimination, promoting work-life balance, providing employee support programs, and encouraging open communication.

These strategies can foster a positive workplace culture that values mental well-being and social interactions, ultimately leading to a happier and more motivated workforce.

Prioritising the psychological and social health of employees can lead to increased job satisfaction, improved performance, and a stronger, more resilient organisation.

If you require additional business support to navigate the regulations around psychosocial hazards and mental health in the workplace, contact Commerce Ballarat. We can assist in connnecting you to resources.