Arc Infrastructure’s Mentally Healthy Workplace Journey

At Arc Infrastructure, looking after people goes far beyond the tracks of Western Australia’s vast freight rail network. With more than 5,000km of rail and close to 600 employees, many of whom are living and working in regional communities, Arc understands that the strength of its network lies in the well-being of its people.

In 2023, Arc made a powerful commitment to the mental health of its workforce by launching the Mentally Healthy Workplace Initiative, a key part of its sustainability strategy. Born from staff feedback and a desire to create a more supportive workplace, the initiative promotes a culture where psychological safety is prioritised and seeking help is encouraged, not stigmatised.

In partnership with Lifeline WA, Arc delivered a suite of impactful programs across Western Australia — reaching communities from Perth to Albany, Kalgoorlie to Geraldton

Through the Supporting Yourself and Others workshops, frontline and corporate staff were equipped with practical tools to check in on themselves and their teammates. For leaders, Lifeline WA’s Psychological Safety in the Workplace sessions empowered them to foster open, inclusive environments where early intervention is possible.

The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Participation included over 75% of leaders and nearly half of field staff, and 97% of attendees found the sessions highly relevant and beneficial.

Beyond the numbers, it’s the stories that truly stand out. Many employees say they now feel more confident having tough conversations and supporting each other through challenges — both at work and in their personal lives

One of the most meaningful initiatives has been Track Mates, Arc’s peer support program. With 38 trained employees serving as approachable first points of contact, the program is creating safe, supportive spaces for conversations around mental health. Backed by Lifeline WA’s Accidental Counsellor training and quarterly refresher workshops, Track Mates are equipped with the skills and confidence to offer meaningful support when it’s needed most.

Looking ahead, Arc is committed to building on this momentum, with plans in place to grow the Track Mates network and enhance feedback mechanisms to measure long-term impact.

By laying these foundations, Arc Infrastructure isn’t just building a better rail network – it’s building a stronger, more connected workforce, and that’s a journey well worth taking.