Most employees leave employer-funded mental health support unused despite availability
More than one in three Australian workers are experiencing constant pressure, yet only a small proportion are using workplace mental health services already funded by their employers, according to new industry analysis.
The findings come as psychological injury claims continue to rise across Australia. Safe Work Australia's latest workplace safety statistics show serious psychological injury claims increased by 169 per cent over the past decade, reaching approximately 17,900 in 2024–25.
Psychological injuries now account for 12.2 per cent of all serious workers' compensation claims. They are also among the most expensive and time-consuming to resolve.
The median compensation payment for a psychological injury is $68,600, around four times higher than for other serious workplace injuries. Affected workers also spend an average of 34.8 weeks away from work, compared with much shorter periods for other injuries.
Despite the growing concerns, only 5 to 6 per cent of employees with access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) use the service, according to industry estimates.
Usage is particularly low in retail, construction and manufacturing, where participation can fall to just 2 per cent. Finance and government sectors record higher rates of up to 9–10 per cent.
EAP services provide confidential, professional support for employees dealing with work pressure, personal difficulties, financial stress, grief and other challenges.
The Employee Assistance Professional Association of Australasia (EAPAA) says low participation does not necessarily mean these services are ineffective. Instead, many workers may be unaware of the support available or concerned about whether their conversations will remain confidential.
EAPAA President Mary Talbot said some employees believe these services are only available during serious personal or workplace crises.
She said early support could help workers manage everyday pressures before they develop into more serious problems.
The association also highlighted the importance of EAP services in helping employers identify workplace wellbeing concerns, train managers and provide professional support following traumatic incidents.
Jennifer Cowley, who used workplace EAP services during her 15 years in the Australian public service, said the support helped her manage both personal grief and work-related pressure.
She encouraged employees to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health support and seek assistance when needed.
Assure General Manager Mallory Allsop said workers often delay seeking help because they misunderstand the purpose of EAP services or have concerns about confidentiality.
Meanwhile, Australian employers have legal responsibilities to identify and manage psychological risks in the workplace under workplace health and safety regulations.
EAPAA says employers should make these services more visible, explain confidentiality arrangements clearly and encourage employees to seek assistance before reaching crisis point.
The association is also calling for greater recognition of EAP services within national mental health strategies and workplace safety guidance.
It emphasised that while EAP programs cannot replace employers' responsibility to prevent workplace stress and psychological harm, they remain an important source of early professional support.
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Source : Press Released.
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