Up to $500,000 is being invested in eight programs to support approaches to returning injured workers to employment
The Victorian government has announced that eight projects will receive up to $500,000 to trial new approaches as part of WorkSafe’s Return to Work Innovations program.
The trials target sectors like transport, healthcare, emergency services and retail.
The successful funding recipients are:
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health – intensive trauma treatment program with AI-informed virtual reality to help paramedics recover from PTSD.
- LC Dyson’s Bus Services – using immersive VR therapy to support drivers with mental injury.
- Lifely – piloting flexible recovery options for regional health workers and training for leaders to better recognise and respond to mental injury.
- Marsh Risk – fast-tracked mental health support to three workplaces with high rates of mental injury.
- Navigator Group – an app to get injured healthcare workers the support they need, quicker.
- Opposite – personalised mental health recovery via an AI-powered tool, SmartRTW, for transport, customer service and health sectors.
- Royal Melbourne Hospital – rapid and tailored mental health support for injured workers.
- Utility Creative – designing and implementing a 24/7 digital return to work hub for Victoria Police.
The Victorian Budget 2026/27 also invests $5.8 million for free training and tailored help for businesses supporting injured workers return to work.
“Advances in technology are helping injured workers get back on their feet and back into rewarding work,” Victoria deputy premier and minister for WorkSafe and the TAC Ben Carroll says.
“Whether it’s through AI, virtual reality or digital technology – we’re investing in ground-breaking solutions to help workers with a mental injury.”
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