On 8-9 July 2025, EML and Phoenix Australia proudly co-hosted the PTSD at Work: Global Perspectives international forum in Sydney, bringing together over 170 professionals from across emergency services, healthcare, government, and mental health sectors to advance the conversation on psychological injury in frontline work.
A global exchange of expertise
Held at Doltone House and Chifley Business & Event Centre, the two-day forum featured three international keynote speakers – Professor Nick Carleton (Canada), Dr Patricia Watson (USA), and Professor Neil Greenberg (UK) – who shared the latest global research, clinical innovations, and organisational strategies to prevent and respond to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Prof. Nick Carleton presented findings from Canada’s groundbreaking Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) study, revealing how integrated mental health training and daily monitoring systems can reduce trauma-related symptoms and improve early intervention.
Dr. Patricia Watson explored her peer-led Stress First Aid model, designed to help emergency responders and military personnel recognise and address cumulative stress without stigma.
Prof. Neil Greenberg focused on moral injury and organisational responsibility, advocating for peer support programs, psychologically savvy leadership, and evidence-based treatment models that prioritise return to work.
Spotlight on Australian innovation
The forum also showcased the depth of local expertise, with nine national presenters delivering breakout sessions on:
- Building resilience and self-compassion
- Moral injury in emergency services
- Vicarious trauma and early digital interventions
- Suicide prevention, career transition, and evidence-based clinical care
A highlight of the day was the lived experience panel, where emergency service professionals spoke candidly about the personal impacts of trauma and the support they’ve received, or lacked, on their mental health journeys.
A focused day for clinicians
Day two of the forum was tailored specifically for clinicians and treatment providers. The program included in-depth panels and keynote discussions on best practice for early intervention, whole-of-organisation strategies, and innovative treatment approaches for PTSD, including emerging research on brief therapies, guided self-help, and moral injury-specific interventions.
Continuing the conversation
The forum underscored a clear theme: psychological safety is a shared responsibility, and meaningful change requires collaboration across systems, professions, and borders.
