The ACTU has released the report from the 2025 Work Shouldn’t Hurt (WSH) survey –
This is the fourth edition of our now bi-annual study that aims to evaluate any shifts or stagnations in health and safety over time.
The findings show that the rate of injuries continues to persist with an ongoing concern regarding the rate of psychological injury and illness experienced across all industries, with more than 1 in 5 (21%) reporting that they had sustained a work-related mental health issue in the past 12 months, with more than two-thirds of those requiring time off work and a further 11% of respondents reported sustaining a physical injury at work.
This year’s report included a deep dive into the experience of injured workers. It shows that over the last 3 years workers have been more likely to take time off work following a mental health injury, with fewer workers reporting not having access to leave as a barrier. Respondents also report that employers are increasingly putting as much importance on mental hazards as physical hazards. These results are positive and reflect both the reduction in insecure work along with a greater understanding of mental health at work.
Concerningly, the experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers remains a significant concern with injury rates twice the rate for non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers. Across all measures Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers experience poorer outcomes, including more serious injuries, and are more likely to be regularly experiencing violence and threats of violence (17% c.f 6%), conflict (22% c.f 11%) and discrimination, harassment and racism (20% c.f 6%). These results underscore the need to strengthen work health and safety frameworks to provide greater protections.
We encourage you to read and circulate the report amongst your networks. If you have any questions or would like further information regarding the report please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Report can be found hhere.
Kind regards,
