Claims for psychological injury at work surge in NSW at triple the rate of physical harm

Physical injury claims rose 11% over the four years to mid-2023, while claims of psychological damage jumped 30% over the same period, according to the State Insurance Regulatory Authority.

Psychological injury hazards include bullying, harassment, exposure to traumatic events, work isolation and poor support.

According to State Insurance Regulatory Authority data, the average cost and time off work for psychological injury claims was more than triple that of physical injuries. In 2022 28% of workers experienced a mental health condition, according to the SafeWork strategy.

Janet*, a finance sector worker, has suffered psychological injuries at her job in Sydney and feels burned out after two years in her role.

Janet experiences tension headaches, muscle pain, depression and anxiety.

The government has pledged $5.6m for workplace mental health training programs for small and medium businesses over the next two years to support the strategy.

The digital infrastructure company Waveconn has put its staff through workplace mental health training provided by the government and presented by the Black Dog Institute and Transitioning Well.

* Name changed for privacy