A recent report has highlighted that Australian workers experience the highest levels of stress in the Asia-Pacific region. This finding underscores broader issues within the Australian workplace, including long working hours and a culture that often discourages taking leave. The stress levels are compounded by the pressure to maintain productivity and meet performance expectations, which can lead to burnout if not addressed.
Australian workers fall mostly into the “rattled” stress category, with 55% experiencing a mix of good and bad days at work. Only 22% are considered “thriving,” meaning they respond to pressure with resilience and engagement, while 23% are “overloaded” and suffer from high levels of negative stress. Compared to other regions, Australia has a relatively low share of thriving workers and a moderate share of overloaded ones, indicating that while extreme stress may not be widespread, many workers are struggling to find consistent well-being and satisfaction in their roles.
Concerning figures were the role of workplace judgment and surveillance: 31% of Australian employees feel judged for using flexible work arrangements, and 33% feel constantly monitored by their managers—factors strongly linked to reduced well-being and lower productivity.
The report emphasizes the need for employers to implement policies that support work-life balance and encourage workers to take leave when needed. It also suggests that addressing these issues could have broader economic benefits by improving productivity and reducing absenteeism due to stress.
The reluctance of Australian workers to take leave is a significant factor contributing to high stress levels. Changing this culture requires a multifaceted approach involving both policy changes and cultural shifts within organizations.
ADP Research produced the report, and a link to the full report can be found further below.
Context & Background
Stress in the workplace has become a significant concern globally, with various studies indicating that Australian workers face particularly high levels of stress compared to other countries in the Asia-Pacific region. This trend is attributed to a combination of factors, including long working hours, lack of work-life balance, and pressure to meet performance targets. The issue is further complicated by the reluctance of Australian workers to take leave, which can exacerbate stress levels and impact overall well-being.
In This Story
Australian Government
The Australian Government plays a crucial role in addressing workplace stress through policy and legislation. It is responsible for implementing measures that promote work-life balance and employee well-being.
Asia-Pacific Region
This region includes countries such as Australia, China, Japan, and India. The diverse economic and cultural landscape of the Asia-Pacific region presents unique challenges and opportunities for managing workplace stress.
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