From right to disconnect laws to mandatory risk reporting, Australia is making changes that aim to improve workplace mental health and physical safety. However, new claims data from Allianz Australia reveals there has been a disturbing surge in psychological injury claims linked to workplace bullying and harassment, now representing 39.5% of all active workers’ compensation claims for FY2025.
The Allianz data shows that the surge in claims is impacting all Australians – no matter the age, gender or geographical location. For example, bullying and harassment affects all Australians across different age brackets, with employees aged 50–60 years accounting for the largest share of active psychological claims overall (29%). This age group also lodged the highest proportion of bullying and harassment related psychological claims last year, accounting for more than a quarter (29%) of all cases.
Millennials have seen a relative increase of 34.78% in harassment and/or bullying claims over the last five years, with Allianz managing almost double the volume of claims for harassament and/or bullyling since 2021. Gen Z looking to be on a similar trajectory to as they enter the workforce.
Brianna Cattanach, National Manager Mental Health Strategy and Delivery at Allianz, said, “Bullying and harassment are no longer confined to the office, with technology and hybrid work extending these harms into digital spaces and even into people’s homes.
“To protect staff wellbeing, employers must strengthen protections and redefine their duty of care to ensure workplaces are safe in every sense – psychologically and emotionally. Supporting employees is not optional; it is a fundamental responsibility for every Australian business.”
“While it may appear that these behaviours are increasing, it is important to recognise that there is a growing understanding of what these behaviours look like within the workplace. People are identifying a broader range of behaviours that cause psychological harm and distress, beyond the traditional view of overt bullying. This, in turn, can encourage more individuals to pursue this avenue to address their experiences, which is encouraging to see,” Brianna concluded.
As claims continue to rise, the Allianz claims data sends a clear warning that bullying, and harassment are cultural issues, not isolated incidents. Employers must strengthen workplace culture and prioritise psychological and emotional safety to protect the wellbeing of every Australian worker.
Australian managers and employees alike are encouraged to visit the Allianz Mental Health Hub for more information and guidance on mental health in the workplace.