The Executive Director of the Australian Retailers’ Association, Russell Zimmerman, has welcomed WorkSafe’s WorkWell Learning Networks, which will support workers whose jobs put them at risk of mental injury.
Speaking as the ARA was announced as Network Chair for one of seven Learning Networks under the initiative, Mr Zimmerman said it was “great to be part of the team” that would deliver the Learning Networks program.
“WorkWell Learning Networks is an excellent initiative that will deliver real benefits across Victoria, both within the retail sector and throughout the wider Victorian community,” Mr Zimmerman said.
“Through these Networks, the most up-to-date thinking and practices can be delivered in individual workplaces and whole industries to promote positive mental health outcomes, particularly for the most vulnerable,” he added.
“Thousands of Victorian workers – including many who work in retail businesses – will benefit from this,” he said.
Mr Zimmerman said that under the ARA’s funding agreement with WorkSafe, it would develop a program management plan in the next three months to deliver the Learning Networks program over the following two years.
Mr Zimmerman said that with the mix of people who work across the retail sector – including students and young people, older employees, casuals, and mums returning to work – the sector he represented was uniquely placed to
maximise the benefit that at-risk workers might derive from the ARA’s involvement in Learning Networks.
“We’re really excited to be a part of such a practical, meaningful and valuable program that stands to benefit so many people across the Victorian community,” Mr Zimmerman said.
“We now look forward to putting together a really positive program management plan that delivers all of the planned benefits across Victoria, and to be working with WorkSafe as a partner on their WorkWell Learning Networks initiative moving forward,” Mr Zimmerman concluded.
Thursday, July 18 2019
