OVA in the workplace
We are committed to supporting our customers to create safer workplaces. Through our Mutual Benefits Program we have embarked on a program of work to address the challenging issue of occupational violence and aggression (OVA).
‘Work-related violence can cause both physical and psychological harm to workers and result in significant economic and social costs to them, their family, the business where they work and the wider community. Like all work health and safety risks it must be managed.’ SafeWork SA
Below you will find:
updates regarding what we have discovered through our latest research projects examining OVA
tools and resources developed to assist you and your people
articles and helpful links to provide guidance and support
links to training and other benefits we provide to support you and your workers.
If you would like further information regarding how we can support your business or joining one of our pilot programs please contact Mutual Benefits.
Creating safer workplaces
At EML, we’re committed to helping our customers prevent and manage Occupational Violence and Aggression (OVA) through the Mutual Benefits Program. We have invested in research, education, and practical tools to support safer and healthier workplaces.
OVA is a serious Work, Health and Safety issue that can cause physical and psychological harm to workers, impacting individuals and businesses.
'Work-related violence can cause both physical and psychological harm to workers and result in significant economic and social costs to them, their family, the business where they work and the wider community. Like all work health and safety risks it must be managed.' SafeWork SA
What you will find on this page
Research insights from our latest OVA focused projects
Practical tools and resources for prevention and management
Training opportunities and support programs
Helpful link and articles from trusted sources
If you would like to learn more or join one of our pilot programs, please contact the Mutual Benefits team.
Articles, resources and research relating to OVA
Preventing Workplace Violence and Aggression
This guide from SafeWork Australia provides information on preventing and responding to workplace violence and aggression, such as providing a safe physical work environment, sa…
Customer Aggression and Violence in Retail
This article from SafeWork SA breaks down the responsibilities of employers and workers regarding creating safe workplaces and how to identify and address OVA.
Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live.
Headspace
Headspace provides access to information and support about your mental health and wellbeing.
Lifeline
Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
New research reveals how job design shapes workplace mental health
Healthcare workers dedicate their careers to caring for others, often in complex and demanding environments. On Tuesday 11 August, healthcare leaders, researchers, wellbeing specialists and injury management professionals came together at the International Healthcare Symposium 2026 to explore how organisations can better support the people who care for our communities every day.
EML Leader, Joanne Zarb named PIEF Award finalists
EML’s Joanne Zarb, named a finalist in the John Walsh Memorial Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, category at the 2026 PIEF Excellence in Personal Injury and Disability Management Awards.
EML’s Claims Portfolio Team S11C named PIEF Award finalists
EML’s Claims Portfolio Team S11C finalists in the Outstanding Contribution by a Team category at the 2026 PIEF Excellence in Personal Injury and Disability Management Awards.
NSW Workers Compensation Scheme reforms announced
The NSW Government has introduced reforms that change how psychological injury claims are defined and managed in the NSW Workers Compensation Scheme. These changes have a direct impact on employers and their workers in NSW.
Supporting Firefighters: Inside the team helping cancer-affected heroes
Firefighters spend their careers running toward danger to protect our communities. But for many, years of exposure to smoke, chemicals, and carcinogens come at a
Leading with purpose: Megan Bell named PIEF Awards 2026 Outstanding Leadership finalist
Healthcare workers dedicate their careers to caring for others, often in complex and demanding environments. On Tuesday 11 August, healthcare leaders, researchers, wellbeing specialists and injury management professionals came together at the International Healthcare Symposium 2026 to explore how organisations can better support the people who care for our communities every day.