- Mental Awareness, Respect and Safety (MARS) Program receives $10 million over next two years as part of 2026-27 State Budget
- Continuation of MARS Program supports Cook Labor Government's broader objectives to create safer workplaces and eliminate unacceptable behaviour in WA's mining industry
- Cook Labor Government fostering safe and inclusive communities
The Cook Labor Government has committed to continue to improve safety, respect, and mental health in Western Australia's mining industry by investing a further $10 million over the next two years to continue the Mental Awareness, Respect and Safety (MARS) Program.
Established in 2021, the MARS Program has helped to drive cultural and systemic reform across WA's mining industry, helping create more healthy, safe, gender-equitable, respectful, and inclusive workplaces.
The additional funding will ensure ongoing momentum in addressing gaps in workplace culture, psychosocial risk management, and the safety of underrepresented groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, young persons, and women.
The MARS Program mission supports the Cook Labor Government's broader objectives to deliver best-practice workplace regulation and eliminate unacceptable behaviour such as bullying and sexual harassment in workplaces.
The additional $10 million investment over the next two years will facilitate the growth of proven interventions, fostering innovation through new delivery platforms and strengthening partnerships to ensure that cultural and safety improvements are both sustainable and implemented throughout WA's mining industry.
The Cook Labor Government remains committed to ensuring WA continues to lead the world in not only mining innovation but also the health, safety, and wellbeing of mining workers.
As stated by Industrial Relations and Women Minister Simone McGurk:
"The MARS Program brings together expertise from across government and industry to tackle complex cultural and safety challenges.
"It has already delivered meaningful change across our mining sector, but we know there is more work to do. This $10 million investment ensures we can continue strengthening workplace culture, improving mental health outcomes, and stamping out unacceptable behaviours.
"We lead the world in mining innovation, and we must match that leadership with the highest standards of safety, inclusivity, and respect.
"We are determined to ensure that every worker in our mining industry is safe, respected, and supported."
