The key figures from the report
ABC News highlighted figures from WorkCover Queensland’s annual report showing accepted psychological injury claims climbing from 1,974 in 2021–22 to 4,110 in 2025–26. This is an increase of 108 per cent in accepted claims. It does not mean that 108 per cent of workers are affected, or that all people with anxiety can necessarily claim. Eligibility is determined under the compensation scheme and the facts of the individual case.
Why workplace mental injuries matter
Mental injuries may arise in workplaces where staff face threatening behaviour, excessive workloads, bullying, harassment or repeated exposure to trauma. Frontline roles can experience particularly challenging circumstances. Advocates note that greater awareness may also increase reporting, so the rise cannot automatically be attributed to one cause. The numbers demonstrate growing pressure on workers and the insurance system, but they do not directly measure the prevalence of mental illness in Queensland.
Return to work can be harder
The report cited by ABC recorded a 71.4 per cent return-to-work rate among mental injury claims, compared with 93.2 per cent for physical injuries. Average paid time off was 123 days for psychological injury claims and 47 days for physical ones. These are aggregate differences, not a prediction for any individual. Recovery plans depend on the diagnosis, working conditions, access to treatment and whether safe duties can be offered.
Cost and the review of the scheme
Mental injuries accounted for around A$334 million in payouts and an average claim cost of A$25,138, according to the reporting. Queensland is reviewing aspects of workers compensation to ensure the scheme remains sustainable. Unions and lawyers have expressed concern that a review might lead to stricter eligibility rules. Concern about a potential change should not be written as if a restriction had already been enacted. Workers should check official notices for actual amendments and commencement dates.
Steps workers can consider
If experiencing an unsafe incident, prioritise immediate safety and obtain appropriate care. A contemporaneous record of incidents, dates, witnesses and work-related effects may be valuable when speaking with a clinician, employer or adviser. Keep relevant documents securely and avoid breaching other people’s privacy. Understand internal incident-reporting procedures, seek independent advice where needed and confirm the specific WorkCover requirements and deadlines. This is general information rather than individual legal or medical advice.
What employers should change
A credible prevention plan assesses psychosocial hazards just as it assesses physical ones. Employers can review workloads, staffing levels, reporting channels, bullying allegations, exposure to violence and staff access to support after traumatic events. Confidential assistance programs are useful but should not replace action on unsafe working conditions. Managers need clear instructions about early intervention and safe return-to-work arrangements rather than treating injury claims only as a cost.
How to understand the statistics
Accepted claims are a subset of reported problems, and statistics can change when awareness, eligibility, enforcement or workplace risks change. Comparing different Australian states requires caution because legal tests and reporting arrangements are not identical. The annual report provides the numerical foundation; journalists, unions and advisers contribute interpretations that should be attributed as such. A careful headline should convey the increase without diagnosing the whole labour market.
Common questions
Does ordinary job stress automatically qualify? No, entitlement depends on the relevant criteria. Are benefits already being cut? The reported review alone does not establish that. Where can figures be checked? In WorkCover’s annual report. What if I am unable to work? Seek medical support and check available procedures with qualified advisers. Can employers prevent claims? Employers can reduce hazards and respond properly, but no measure guarantees zero injuries.