Victoria is facing a workplace mental health crisis as new data reveals a dramatic surge in psychological injury claims across the state. WorkSafe Victoria has reported a staggering 40 percent increase in mental injury claims over the past five years, with workplace aggression and violence emerging as major contributing factors.
Alarming Statistics Reveal Growing Crisis
The latest figures from WorkSafe Victoria paint a concerning picture of workplace mental health. Mental injury claims have jumped from 5,900 in 2018-19 to 8,300 in 2022-23, representing a significant burden on both workers and the compensation system. The data shows that psychological injuries now account for 16 percent of all workplace injury claims in Victoria.
WorkSafe Health and Safety Director Narelle Beer highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that mental injuries typically require longer recovery times and result in higher costs compared to physical injuries. The average time lost for mental injury claims is 27 weeks, nearly three times longer than the average for physical injuries.
Workplace Aggression Driving Claims Surge
A disturbing trend revealed in the data shows workplace aggression as a primary driver of psychological injuries. Reports of occupational violence have increased significantly, with many workers experiencing verbal abuse, threats, and physical intimidation in their workplaces.
The statistics show that claims related to workplace violence have risen sharply, particularly in sectors dealing directly with the public. Healthcare workers, education staff, retail employees, and customer service representatives appear most vulnerable to aggressive behaviour from clients, customers, and in some cases, colleagues.
Narelle Beer emphasised that work-related stress and mental health conditions are just as valid as physical injuries under Victoria's occupational health and safety laws. Employers have the same duty of care to protect workers from psychological harm as they do from physical dangers.
New Campaign Targets Workplace Psychological Safety
In response to the alarming trends, WorkSafe has launched a new campaign called "WorkWell: Because mental health matters at work." The initiative aims to support employers in creating psychologically safe workplaces and preventing mental injuries before they occur.
The campaign provides practical resources and guidance for businesses of all sizes, focusing on proactive measures rather than reactive responses. Key elements include training for managers on identifying early warning signs, developing clear policies for dealing with workplace aggression, and creating supportive return-to-work programs for employees recovering from psychological injuries.
WorkSafe is urging employers to take immediate action by conducting risk assessments for psychological hazards, implementing prevention strategies, and fostering workplace cultures that prioritise mental wellbeing. The organisation notes that creating mentally healthy workplaces isn't just a legal requirement—it also makes good business sense by reducing absenteeism, improving productivity, and retaining valuable staff.
As mental health awareness continues to grow in Australian workplaces, these latest figures serve as a stark reminder that much work remains to be done in protecting workers from psychological harm and creating environments where employees can thrive both mentally and physically.
