Millions of Australians expected to quit their jobs in 2026

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Workplace burnout is pushing millions of Australians to consider quitting their jobs in the next year, new research by Allianz Australia has found.

The study revealed that nearly 80% of employees and two-thirds of managers believe their organisations fail to promote healthy work habits or boundaries.

Managers blamed the issue on limited resources, poor technology, and conflicting priorities, while 59% of employees reported work-related mental distress — often caused by heavy workloads, meeting overload, and unrealistic expectations.

Australians also say they waste over three hours a week on “unnecessary” work and struggle to take proper breaks. Despite new right-to-disconnect laws, many still find it hard to switch off due to technology and cost-of-living pressures.

An estimated 2.7 million workers are now thinking about leaving their jobs within the next 12 months.

Allianz data also shows a 28% jump in mental distress claims since 2021, with employees taking an average of 81 days off per claim.

Experts say prevention is key — calling on employers to design healthier workloads, encourage breaks, and set clear boundaries after hours.

“Burnout isn’t just part of the job,” said Helen Lawson Williams, co-founder of anti-burnout program TANK. “It’s about recognising the signs early and speaking up before stress takes over.”

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