Tasmania warned of 'stress, burnout' as justice staff wellbeing service axed
Budget pressures are being blamed for the axing of a wellbeing service for Tasmania's justice department employees, with opponents denouncing the move, which they say will lead to high staff turnover and psychological injury.
Tasmania's justice department employees are facing increased stress and burnout following the cancellation of a specialized safety and wellbeing program, according to critics. The decision to eliminate the program, which offers case management and psychological support to approximately 200 staff members, was made as part of a broader effort to cut costs amidst ballooning state debt.
The existing Employee Assistance Program (EAP) will now be expanded to replace the lost service, but some workers argue that the EAP is insufficient and not as effective as the specialized program. The cancellation of the wellbeing hub is expected to lead to greater job turnover due to burnout and unresolved mental health issues, as many justice staff work in high-pressure environments where they are exposed to trauma, conflict, and aggression.
Critics maintain that the wellbeing program saved money by preventing costly psychological injuries and that its removal demonstrates a lack of foresight and understanding of the workforce's needs. Labor MP Ella Haddad questioned the treasurer's strategy, stating that the cuts indicate a lack of transparency and a lack of consideration for the future of various industries in Tasmania, including IT and cybersecurity.
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