The mining, agriculture and forestry industries are particularly important in Tasmania, generating jobs and wealth, especially in our rural and regional communities.
While sustainable jobs and a thriving industry can build and maintain community health and wealth, it is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Today I was pleased to speak at the launch of the Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council’s (TMEC) Blueprint for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
All too often, we become too focused on our work and neglect to take time to adequately look after ourselves.
The Blueprint looks to rectify this, and it has a strong focus on actions designed to promote mental health and wellbeing, and prevent mental health problems.
The TMEC Blueprint is an evidence-based framework to help Council members work collaboratively to address mental health and wellbeing as part of a holistic approach to health and safety.
This supports the Hodgman Government’s own long-term plan for mental health in Tasmania. The Rethink Mental Health plan provides a blueprint for a State-wide integrated mental health system for the next decade.
I’m heartened by this commitment and by the growing recognition that a mentally healthy workplace creates a positive work environment.