Harcourts Australia Launches Mental Health First Aid Initiative

As part of its ongoing commitment to employee wellbeing, Harcourts Australia has launched a new Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) initiative.

The programme, which comes during Mental Health Month, has seen several team members complete accredited training, equipping them to provide initial support to colleagues experiencing mental health challenges.

This initiative reflects the company's core values: Putting People First, Being Courageous, and Doing the Right Thing.

The newly accredited Mental Health First Aiders are from various departments across Australia, including Marketing, Finance, Culture, and even leadership.

"Mental Health First Aiders can come from any level and department, creating a diverse network that makes support accessible and helps reduce stigma," points out Cheryl Sen from Harcourts People and Culture.

The group includes Sharon Kupsch, Alicia Johncock, Zachary Wigmore, Kolton Lee, plus Cheryl Sen, and Shane Kempton (both pictured), CEO for Harcourts WA.

Much like a physical first aider assists with injuries, these MHFAs are trained to approach, assess, and assist when someone may be struggling, offering a safe and confidential space to talk.

Mitch Green, Head of People and Culture (pictured, centre), shared his enthusiasm for the new offering.

"We talk about wellness all the time, we promote paying attention to it and working on it, but we could do a better job of equipping our team to handle the times when someone needs help. That's what this initiative does," he said.

The initiative is a key step in creating a workplace culture where open conversations about mental health are not only accepted but encouraged.

The role of a Mental Health First Aider is to act as a vital bridge to professional help, not to serve as a counsellor or therapist.

Their responsibilities include listening without judgment, providing information on internal resources like the Employee Assistance Program, and encouraging other supports such as self-care strategies. All conversations are confidential, except in rare cases where there is a risk of harm.

Shane Kempton, CEO for Harcourts WA, also commented on the importance of the training. "Mental fitness matters now more than ever... my passion is helping people build mental fitness, resilience, and purpose in both their professional and personal lives, this training is an essential. I thoroughly recommend it to everyone."