Ignite+VU: Good mental health is good for business

On Friday 19 July 2019, Victoria University (VU) will showcase its research to industry at the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) ignite series, presenting the university’s work on mental health, physical activity and body image.

The Victorian Chamber is looking forward to another opportunity to connect health industry professionals with the best in the research business.

Three of Victoria University’s pre-eminent researchers in these areas, Professor Alexandra Parker, Associate Professor Melinda Craike and Dr Siân McLean, will share their insights into proactive solutions to mental health at ignite+VU.

Untreated mental health conditions cost Australian businesses almost $11 billion annually through absenteeism, reduced productivity and workers’ compensation claims.

Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Mark Stone AM said he is delighted to partner again with Victoria University to focus on innovative and collaborative solutions to the ever-growing issue of mental health, an issue high on the VCCI agenda.

“The Victorian Chamber’s recent Health Taskforce reported that the prevalence of mental health disorders has been on the rise in Victoria, with a projected increase of more than eight per cent between 2011 and 2022,” he said.

“Addressing mental health in the workplace benefits everyone, workers and businesses. We’re working with our members to help them understand their obligations.”

“Ignite has a proven track record in connecting businesses with research organisations, with more than 80 collaborations made as a result of our series. We hope to continue with this trend at ignite+VU today.”

Tackling broad themes from space tech to sports science over six successful events, the ignite series is a ground-breaking collaboration between the Victorian Government, VCCI, CSIRO, AusIndustry, IP Australia and Victorian universities.

/Public Release.