Psychosocial risks are now a core workplace health and safety issue for schools, with increased regulatory attention and evolving legal expectations. This practical webinar will help school leaders, administrators and education professionals understand what psychosocial hazards look like in a school setting, where the key legal responsibilities sit, and how to respond proactively. Drawing on recent developments and real‑world lessons, you will be equipped with clear insights to better identify risk, support staff wellbeing, and make informed decisions that reduce organisational exposure while fostering a safer, healthier school environment.
Tuesday, 23 June 2026
Description
Legalwise Seminars is a NESA recognised PD provider
Educators can attend and earn 1 hour of Registered Professional Development or Registered Professional Learning
Lawyers can attend and earn 1 CPD unit in Substantive Law
This program is applicable to practitioners from all States & Territories
Australian Professional Standards for Teachers
Graduate - Proficient - Highly Accomplished - Lead Accreditation
6.2 - Engage in professional learning and improve practice
7.2 - Comply with legislative, administrative and organisational requirements
1.00pm to 2.00pm Psychosocial Hazards in Schools: Understanding Risks and Legal Responsibilities
As the legal, regulatory and policy developments continue at pace, unpack some of the key challenges and lessons learned for employers/schools navigating the new landscape
Presented by Lucy Bochenek, Executive Counsel, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer
Chair:
Dr Steve Middleton, Principal and CEO, The Pittwater House School
Presenters
Dr Steve Middleton, Principal and CEO, The Pittwater House SchoolDr Middleton, who will formally begin in Term 1, 2026, is a respected educational leader with close to 30 years’ experience in Australia’s top independent schools – including The King’s School and Knox Grammar. Associate Principal at St Margaret’s Berwick Grammar in Melbourne, named one of The Educator’s Most Influential Educators, Dr Middleton is a passionate advocate for the collective well-being and academic advancement of each student.
Lucy Bochenek, Executive Counsel, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer
Lucy is a work health and safety law expert who specialises in strategic, regulatory and risk management issues across a range of sectors including energy and resources, construction, manufacturing, property and transport. Lucy has significant experience acting as defence counsel in workplace health and safety prosecutions and representing parties in Coronial Inquests and Inquiries. She has expertise in incident response, conducting incident investigations, compliance audits, drafting workplace health and safety policies, drafting and review of contractual clauses and is renowned for her innovative training sessions for her clients and industry forums.
