The Fiji Civil Service has unveiled a revised Civil Service Workplace Health and Wellness Policy designed to enhance working conditions across all government ministries and departments. This updated policy, which builds upon the framework first introduced in 2011, includes substantial revisions made in December 2025 and aims to comprehensively address the physical, mental, social, and occupational well-being of public sector employees.
A primary focus of the new policy is the reduction of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and the promotion of a positive workplace culture. Under the new regulations, all civil service stakeholders are required to either align their internal workplace health policies with this national framework or adopt it fully. The oversight of compliance will fall to Permanent Secretaries, supported by Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Committees, designated as Healthy Workplace Committees.
This initiative stems from a regional effort supported by the World Health Organization aimed at combating NCDs, and now it encompasses the entire civil service in Fiji. It introduces a structured “healthy workplace approach,” which involves staff engagement, baseline health screenings, mitigation strategies, implementation, and continued monitoring.
Key aspects of the revised policy include mandatory annual health screenings for employees, special initiatives like Wellness Wednesdays to encourage physical activity, and strict regulations to ensure tobacco-free workplaces. The policy also imposes restrictions on the use of yaqona, alcohol, and illicit drugs in government settings, with only limited cultural exceptions permitted.
Mental health and stress management are prioritized within the framework, requiring that government-funded events adhere to national healthy catering standards. Furthermore, departments must provide breastfeeding facilities and enhance calorie-awareness among their employees.
To ensure the successful integration of the policy, Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Departments are responsible for embedding these health initiatives into daily operations, with managers expected to exemplify healthy behavior. Additionally, the policy promotes environmental and social responsibility, advocating for safe and accessible workspaces, disaster preparedness, flexible work arrangements, and active participation in community outreach programs.
Looking ahead, the policy’s relevance will be maintained through biannual reviews conducted by the Ministry of Civil Service, which will also report findings to the Public Service Commission. This commitment marks a significant step towards improving the health and well-being of Fiji’s civil service, ultimately creating a more supportive and efficient working environment for all public servants. The proactive approach demonstrates a positive outlook for the future of workplace wellness in Fiji, fostering a culture of health and safety across the government sector.