Sunday, March 1, 2026

1:30 PM - 4:30 PM

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Overview

A practical workshop hosted by MHFA, equipping frontline workers with practical tools to recognise mental health challenges and foster healthier workplaces. Bookings required

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Details

Being on the frontline can be challenging. High stress environments, emotionally charged situations, exposure to trauma and shift work can take a serious toll on mental health, leaving workers particularly vulnerable to distress. Across the country, mental health problems are common – each year, 1 in 5 Australians will experience a common mental illness. That means that every day, millions of Australians go to work while managing mental health problems, impacting wellbeing, productivity and culture. For frontline workers, these pressures can be even more intense. This interactive workshop MHFA Foundations for the Frontline gives practical tools and insights to help. It introduces participants to the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems, how to recognise when someone may be struggling, and practical strategies to offer support. You will gain confidence in starting mental health conversations to reduce stigma and foster mentally healthier workplaces – where helping others begins with helping ourselves. Agenda 1.30pm – 1.45pm Welcome & Introduction 1.45pm – 2.15pm Mental health as a frontline worker (Part 1) 2.15pm – 3.00pm MHFA Frontline Foundations session (Part 2) 3.00pm – 3.15pm Afternoon tea 3.15pm – 4.30pm MHFA Frontline Foundations session (Part 2) Session breakdown Part 1: Mental health as a frontline worker Isaac Collihole, will share his experiences and the systemic challenges of navigating professional supports both as a veteran and a police officer, provide experience of alternative supports being a preferred care model and support network and reiterate the need for personalised care approaches based on the person's needs. Part 2: MHFA Foundations for the Frontline Janie McCullagh, 22-year Australian Army veteran and Master Instructor for the Adult, Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) courses will present the Mental Health First Aid Essentials session, including practical strategies and insights designed to help first responders navigate mental health issues effectively. Participants will gain valuable tools for supporting their own mental health as well as their peers and will be equipped with knowledge to address challenges with confidence and compassion. The two-hour session provides participants with a comprehensive overview of what an MHFAider will learn when they do the full 12-hour Mental Health First Aid training course. It explores how workplace factors can contribute to mental health problems and outlines a framework for creating mentally healthy workplaces. The session also highlights the role of MHFAiders and MHFA Officers, showing how workplace training can foster a culture of care, where employees feel supported, safe and encouraged to speak openly about mental health – and where pathways to support are promoted.

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Speaker