A new guide to assist employers of workers with a mental illness is available from the Australian Human Rights Commission.

The guide, entitled “Workers with mental illness: a practical guide for managers” was launched by commission president Catherine Branson, QC, at the Australian Employers Network on Disability Conference in Sydney on 27 May.

“Workers with mental illness: a practical guide for managers aims to help managers better understand mental illness, develop strategies that assist workers with a mental illness and ensure that their workplaces are healthy and productive,” President Branson said.

“We developed this guide because research conducted by the Australian Human Rights Commission showed that managers want to provide support to staff members who live with a mental illness, but often lack the confidence or skills to do so,” said President Branson. The guide was released after consultation with the business community, trades unions, disability organisations, workplace safety bodies and employers.

Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Graeme Innes, said the guide would assist managers and employers in managing OHS issues and treating all employees fairly.

The guide has been endorsed by the Fair Work Ombudsman, beyondblue: the national depression initiative, SANE Australia, the Mental Health Council of Australia, and supported by Safe Work Australia.

It is available online here.

Have your say: What is your organisation doing to address mental health issues? Is your approach proactive? Or reactive?

A new grouping of male CEOs and company chairmen will work to raise the issue of gender equality on the national business agenda. The men will develop and drive strategies to progress gender equality in the corporate sector.  

Formation of the group followed ASX Corporate Governance Council recommendations on diversity, requiring each ASX listed entity to adopt and disclose a diversity policy which includes measurable objectives relating to gender. The reforms are due to be implemented in July 2011.  

Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Elizabeth Broderick, who established the group at a meeting in Sydney last week, said that the men’s commitment and enthusiasm “will be one of the most significant factors in achieving success and building momentum toward the adoption of the ASX council reforms”.

Commenting, Australian Industry Group chief executive Heather Ridout said that the way for women to get ahead in business was by being competent, committed and loyal. But they also had to get along with their colleagues, join in, go along to the pub, and be interested in what people did.

The new group consists of: