Mental health WorkCover claims in Qld double in five years

Mental health-related claims to Queensland’s workers’ compensation insurer have more than doubled over the past five years, according to data from WorkCover’s annual report. Unions, lawyers, and experts are concerned the state government may tighten eligibility criteria to address the trend. An independent review of the WorkCover scheme is set to be completed by the second half of 2026, during which the rise in mental injuries will be examined.

Maurice Blackburn workers’ compensation lawyer Alison Barrett stated that the increase is not unique to Queensland, but is also occurring nationwide. She attributes the rise to a combination of factors, including greater awareness of mental health issues and the presence of psychosocial hazards in the workplace, such as excessive workloads, occupational violence and aggression, and bullying and harassment.

Former WorkCover deputy chair and General Secretary of the Queensland Council of Unions Jacqueline King noted that the rise in psychological claims is closely linked to reported assaults on frontline workers, including those employed by Queensland Health, Education Queensland, Queensland Police Service, Corrective Services, Youth Justice, and Child Safety. Those frontline workers are experiencing increasing violence, excessive workloads, and trauma.

Mental injury claims result in a lower likelihood of returning to work (71.4% compared to 93.2% for physical injuries) and longer periods off work (123 average annual paid days compared to 47 days). These claims cost the system $334 million, with an average claim cost of $25,138.

Barrett and King have warned that any policy response to the rising psychological injury claims could inadvertently restrict access to compensation, rather than addressing the root causes. They call for efforts to prevent psychological injuries, improve workplace safety, and provide earlier support for workers, rather than solely focusing on compensation entitlements.

The Office of Industrial Relations has stated that reducing risks of psychological injuries is just as important as physical ones, and that employers have a range of responsibilities and resources to support workers.