Action Against Violence in NSW Hospitals Working Group

SafeWork NSW facilitated a systems-thinking project in response to the increasing incidence of work-related violence in NSW hospitals. Following this project, the Action Against Violence in NSW Hospitals Working Group was established to drive collaborative action across the hospitals sector. The group held its final meeting on 19 September 2025 in Sydney.

The Working Group brought together representatives from:

  • the NSW Ministry of Health
  • NSW Local Health Districts
  • Unions (Health Services Union, NSW Nurses and Midwives Association, Australian Salaried Medical Officers Federation)
  • NSW Ambulance
  • NSW Police
  • private hospitals (Healthscope Operations, Ramsay Health Care, Healthe Care)
  • Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network
  • SafeWork NSW.

Throughout its operation, the group developed strategies, priorities and initiatives to address work-related violence in NSW hospitals. These resources remain available to support PCBUs in improving workplace safety.

Transition to the Hospitals Industry Action Group

With the conclusion of the Action Against Violence in NSW Hospitals Working Group, SafeWork NSW is now supporting the formation of a Hospitals Industry Action Group. While violence in hospitals remains a significant and ongoing concern, and will continue to be a key focus, the new group will take a broader approach to hospital safety. Its expanded scope will include other risks such as psychosocial hazards, musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and emerging health and safety challenges in hospital environments.

The Working Group’s legacy will continue through the broader efforts of the Hospitals Industry Action Group.

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