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Workplace support plays a vital role in achieving successful RTW outcomes. Interventions often involve collaboration with RTW coordinators and employers to identify and address workplace barriers, make necessary modifications and provide appropriate accommodations.

RTW Coordinators can effectively support high-risk workers in the matched care framework by:

•scheduling a meeting with the injured worker in the first week after the reported injury, or as soon as practically possible, to discuss any workplace barriers.

•communicating with the counsellor (with the worker’s permission) to identify areas where they can assist in facilitating an early RTW to match the worker’s work readiness.

•engaging in open communication with the worker's treating doctor and their supervisor to proactively identify and address any issues or workplace obstacles. Education of and ongoing support for the person’s supervisor also helps address workplace barriers.

By integrating psychosocial matched care into their RTW programs, employers address psychosocial risk promptly by providing tailored support and workplace adjustments.

This approach also ensures that the workplace complies with psychosocial hazards legislation being rolled out around Australia, which requires employers to proactively identify and manage psychosocial risks in the workplace — such as job demands, low job control and poor support— to prevent psychosocial hazards and psychological harm.