Dr Rachael Potter

I am a research leader within the Psychosocial Safety Climate Global Observatory (PSC-GO), which is funded by an ARC Laureate Fellowship and strives to build evidence and improve organisational psychosocial health and safety. While still contributing towards PSC-GO’s organisational focus, my work expands the scope to encompass the national work health and safety (WHS) policy and regulatory environment for psychological health and safety. My research informs a systems-level understanding of how legislation, enforcement, and institutional structures influence organisational practices, helping to strengthen the practical impact of policy for more meaningful change. My research has contributed to global discussions on best-practice regulatory design, been referenced in international (e.g., International Labour Organisation [ILO]) policy documents, as well in Australian Senate inquiries. I have developed world-first policy evaluation tools and methods (i.e., National Policy Index for Worker Mental Health) that inform both international and national regulatory bodies. I also provide formal advice through my roles on advisory groups and committees and regularly contribute expert input to public and professional audiences through invited talks to share my research in accessible and applied ways. My work is grounded in a strong commitment to social justice and equity—particularly focusing on improving conditions for women in the workforce. My vision is to strengthen global and national policy implementation efforts to improve organisational psychosocial risk management and worker health outcomes.

Qualifications

• Doctor of Philosophy University of South Australia

• Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) University of South Australia