Championing mental health in the workplace
The recent introduction of the ‘Right to Disconnect’ legislation has brought employee mental health and wellbeing to the forefront of public discussion.
Safe Work Australia’s latest report on psychological health in Australian workplaces shows we have a long way to go.
The data shows mental health conditions now account for 9 per cent of all serious workers’ compensation claims, a 36.9 per cent increase since 2017-18.
Claims related to mental health conditions are associated with a median compensation amount 3 times greater than that of all physical injuries and illnesses, and a median work time lost more than 4 times greater.
Particularly concerning is the finding that workers with claims for mental health conditions experience poorer return to work outcomes and are more likely to experience stigma from colleagues and their employers.
Safe Work Australia has made recent amendments to the Workplace Health and Safety Regulations, specifying employers’ obligation to manage psychosocial risks in the workplace. These changes, along with the new Model Code of Practice on managing psychosocial hazards at work, are a welcome recognition of the profound impact that workplace stressors can have on mental health, and a fundamental step forward.
This data shows there is still much work to do though to ensure the effective implementation of these measures in workplaces across Australia.
As the Productivity Commission recommended, we need industry-specific Codes of Practice to address the unique challenges faced by different sectors.
Safe Work Australia’s report also shows that the greatest increase in mental health related compensation claims over the last 5 years was amongst the public administration and safety industry - including workers who provide police, security, emergency and correctional services.
The occupation group with the highest proportion of mental health related workers’ compensation claims is community and personal service workers. For this group, the areas contributing most to mental stress claims were work pressure (23 per cent), work-related harassment or workplace bullying (20 per cent), exposure to workplace or occupational violence (19 per cent) and exposure to a traumatic event (17 per cent).
It is clear a one-size-fits-all approach will not work. We must tailor interventions to specific needs of different industries and professions, including targeted support and resources for people who work in the mental health and care sectors, along with support for people in the workplace with lived experience of mental ill-health, and their family, carers and supporters.
The mental health sector has a responsibility to champion change and drive meaningful reform in our workplaces. Through the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, governments have also identified workplaces as a priority area for reform. By collaborating across government and industry, we can resource and create environments that promote psychological safety and wellbeing – for both community members and service users, and our staff.
Carolyn Nikoloski
CEO, Mental Health Australia | 
