Caring for people is at the heart of everything we do. Whether we’re supporting the communities we serve or looking after one another, creating safe workspaces helps us continue our services and support with confidence. This edition includes important updates and reminders to help keep our members, volunteers and employees safe, informed and supported.
WHS Codes of Practice
From 1 July 2026, approved Work Health and Safety (WHS) Codes of Practice are mandatory across our operations and should no longer be treated as general guidance. Member leaders are asked to review their sites and activities to ensure they align with the relevant Codes, helping us maintain effective safety controls and meet our WHS obligations.
Visit the WHS Codes of Practice page to understand what this means for you (log in required). Please speak with your Regional Director if you require further information.
Manual handling is part of everyday work
Nearly every activity we undertake involves some level of manual handling. This includes carrying donations, setting up events, reaching for and storing items, lifting boxes, preparing food, pushing trolleys or moving donations. Before starting any task:
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Think about the safest way to complete the task
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Use equipment designed to reduce manual handling where available
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Ask for assistance with awkward or heavy loads
Avoid unnecessary lifting wherever possible.
When planning activities or events involving members, volunteers or employees, remember to identify any manual handling risks and document the controls in your risk assessment before the activity or event takes place.
Online manual handling training
Our online Manual Handling module is now available and provides practical guidance on reducing the risk of injury while carrying out everyday activities. All members, volunteers and employees who undertake manual handling activities are expected to complete the training. It is a simple way to refresh your knowledge and help keep yourself and others safe.
Please complete the module via the MV Portal as soon as practicable if you have not already done so.
Emergency preparedness
Emergency preparedness can save time and lives. Please know your local emergency procedures and evacuation arrangements, including:
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Make sure safe and suitable assembly points have been identified
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Ensure everyone knows where to go during an evacuation
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Confirm everyone can be accounted for after an evacuation
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Ensure emergency wardens understand their responsibilities and review arrangements regularly
Food safety matters
Food safety continues to be an important focus across the Society. When receiving donated food or third-party prepared meals, always:
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Check labelling and use-by dates
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Ensure packaging is intact
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Keep hot food hot and cold food cold
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Never re-freeze partially thawed food
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If in doubt, throw it out
Please continue to use the food safety factsheets to help protect the health of our people and the community. If donated food appears unsafe or you are unsure, seek advice before accepting or distributing it.
Supporting your wellbeing
Looking after wellbeing is just as important as looking after your physical safety.
Our Converge Support Program offers confidential wellbeing support and regular webinars covering topics such as resilience, mental health, stress management, sleep and healthy habits. These services are available to all members, volunteers and employees, providing support whenever you or your family need it.
We also encourage you to connect with our Mission Team, who provide pastoral care and spiritual support for members, volunteers and employees. Whether you need someone to listen or support during a difficult time, the Mission Team is available to walk alongside you with compassion and care.
Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength. Looking after your wellbeing helps you continue your good works while also caring for others.
Report hazards and incidents early
Please report hazards, injuries and safety concerns as soon as possible via the Integrated Risk Management System (IRMS) or to your Conference President. Early reporting helps us respond quickly, prevent harm and strengthen our safety controls across all sites and activities.
Find safety resources
Remember to log into the MAVS website to access the latest safety information, guidance, fact sheets, emergency response resources, training information and consultation updates.
Thank you for your dedication and commitment to staying safe. By completing training, planning tasks carefully, reporting concerns early and using available resources, we can continue supporting the people we assist safely.
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