Vicarious trauma (VT) presents significant risks for anyone working with clients impacted by trauma. The individual impacts of VT can include re-experiencing or reliving trauma, sleep disturbance, relationship issues and avoidance of work or social situations. Organisationally VT can result in increased absenteeism, decreased productivity and increased Workcover claims and staff turnover.

Full Stop Australia (FSA) has an internal multifaceted vicarious trauma, mitigation program targeting all levels of the organisation. The success of this program measures indicators such as absenteeism, Workcover claims and regular workplace wellbeing surveys. FSA also works with a wide range of external agencies to address VT impacts through training and professional workplace solutions.

This presentation will investigate the inherent and unique risks and impacts of VT for practitioners in rural and remote areas. It will discuss the FSA frameworks, interventions, and tools used to promote vicarious resilience and address VT impacts.