Publications on Workplace Suicide Postvention and Psychosocial Hazards
Publications on the development and impact of Workplace Aware Our program is grounded in an iterative research and evaluation program.. This section showcases peer-reviewed publications, academic collaborations, and data analyses that demonstrate the measurable impact of Workplace Aware in addressing psychosocial risks associated with suicide and sudden death in the workplace. These works provide evidence-based insights that inform policy, strengthen organisational preparedness, and support staff wellbeing.
From Case Study to Research Partnership
The 2022 academic case study in which the original program model was developed, was extended in 2023 with a major study by the University of Western Australia across 22 workplaces.
Research-Informed Training for Workplace Preparedness
Research Overview
The 2023 study, conducted by the University of Western Australia across 22 workplaces (government, not-for-profit, and commercial organisations) with staff sizes ranging from 100 to 57,000, revealed the widespread impact of staff exposure to suicide and sudden death.
This research examined the psychosocial harms resulting from these experiences and assessed the effectiveness of the Workplace Aware program model in reducing risk and improving workplace.
22 workplaces studied
Government, not-for-profit & commercial sectors represented
Organisations ranging from 100 to 57,000 staff
University of Western Australia research partnership
Critical Findings
The Reality of Workplace Preparedness
Our 2023 University of Western Australia study revealed critical gaps in mental health preparedness across participating organisations:
100% of workplaces had staff exposed to suicide or sudden death.
Staff reported significant impacts, including stress, trauma, and suicidal ideation.
Only 1 in 22 workplaces had existing training
or protocols in place.Managers reported a widespread lack of confidence in responding to suicide-related incidents.
Impact In Numbers
Our Research-backed Results Demonstrate Measurable Improvement
-
95%
→ Said the program advanced their workplace planning
→ Would recommend the program
to colleagues -
90%
→ Better understood the impact of exposure to suicide
→ Felt more informed about best-practice responses -
80%
→ Gained confidence with WHS compliance
→ Felt more informed about best-practice responses
Beyond The Numbers
The Study Also Highlighted How Organisational Culture Shifted
Staff reported moving from feeling unsupported to being equipped with tools and training.
Consistent protocols were developed for responding to suicide, trauma, and sudden loss.
Managers and staff demonstrated increased confidence in addressing psychosocial risks.
Workplace culture and overall wellbeing improved across participating organisations.
Publications
Hidden in Plain Sight – Staff Exposure to Suicide and Responses to a New, Systemic Model of Workplace Postvention
Exposure to suicide has significant psychosocial impacts on staff, yet workplace postvention is often lacking. Interviews with 54 staff across 22 workplaces showed widespread negative effects and minimal organizational support. A new systemic postvention model improved staff preparedness through tailored, co-designed training, governance, and supports.
The Role of Funeral Staff in Suicide Postvention
Suicide bereavement is a complex, stigmatising and isolating experience which can have long-lasting negative effects.
Towards an Evidence-Based Model of Workplace Postvention
This instrumental case study explored what suicide postvention might offer workplaces using the example of a large metropolitan funeral company. A mixed methods approach was utilized to examine staff experiences with suicide bereavement funerals and responses to a bespoke postvention training package. Staff found funerals due to suicide difficult in terms of communication, engagement and emotionality.
Research that informs real-world change.