Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults
Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults
KPMG's report, "Australia’s Mental Health Check Up," presents data showing a 732% increase in TPD claims in this age group. Mental health issues now account for 36% of claims, a stark rise from 10.1% in 2013. The shift places mental health at the forefront of reasons for early workforce withdrawal.
Men are disproportionately affected, with a 59% greater likelihood of leaving jobs for mental health reasons. This pattern is emerging earlier, with the average age of claimants dropping from 48.8 years in 2013 to 46.5 years in 2022.
CALI CEO Christine Cupitt expressed concern over the trend's broader impact. "The unprecedented number of people leaving the workforce permanently in the prime of their working life has huge implications for them personally, for their loved ones, for our national economy, and for our already stretched government support systems,” she stated.
Australia's life insurers are not only collecting data but are also becoming more involved in addressing mental health impacts. “These are very concerning generational trends that show the frequency and severity of mental ill-health is rising exponentially in our community,” Cupitt highlighted.
The report underscores another finding: white-collar workers have a slightly higher propensity to claim disability benefits due to mental health issues compared to blue-collar peers. Specifically, they are 7% more prone to claim permanent and 14% more likely to request temporary disability.
Briallen Cummings, KPMG Partner, elaborated, “The significant rise in mental health conditions over the past decade is a real concern for the community and this is reflected in the life insurance data shown in our report.” She noted the growing severity and prevalence of these conditions making a tangible mark on societal well-being.
The report also attributes 80% of the decade-long increase in TPD claims to mental health, with annual growth nearing 10%. This far surpasses the 0.5% yearly rise for claims due to physical ailments.
Cupitt mentioned potential consequences for insurance coverage accessibility. "While governments are already thinking seriously about Australians’ mental health, we now have further evidence that our community needs more including a stronger and earlier safety net to keep people from falling through the cracks,” she remarked.
These findings suggest significant challenges and potential shifts in how mental health is managed within the workplace and by insurers. KPMG and CALI's research presents a call to action for enhanced support systems and preventative measures to address the burgeoning crisis.
Published:Friday, 6th Dec 2024
Source: Paige Estritori
Share this news item:
| Newline Group Strengthens Australian Presence with Sydney Office and Key Appointment 14 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori Specialty insurer Newline Group has announced the opening of a new office in Sydney, marking a significant expansion of its Australian operations. This strategic move aims to bring the company closer to its distribution partners and clients in the region, enhancing service delivery and fostering stronger relationships. - read more |
| Markel Insurance Introduces Tailored Financial Institution Products for Australian Market 14 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori Markel Insurance has unveiled a suite of financial institution products specifically designed for the Australian market, featuring localized policy wordings to better address the unique needs of local businesses. This initiative reflects Markel's commitment to providing tailored insurance solutions that resonate with the specific requirements of Australian financial institutions. - read more |
| KPMG Survey Highlights Australian CEOs' Changing Views on Office Work 14 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori A recent survey conducted by KPMG has unveiled a significant shift in the expectations of Australian CEOs regarding office work. The findings indicate that only 22% of those surveyed anticipate a full-time return to the office for corporate employees within the next three years. This marks a substantial decrease from the 82% reported in the previous year, signaling a notable change in leadership perspectives on workplace dynamics. - read more |
| IAG's Recommendations to the Federal Inquiry on Small Business Insurance 14 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori Insurance Australia Group (IAG) has recently submitted its recommendations to the Federal Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services, focusing on the Inquiry into Small Business Insurance. In its submission, IAG outlines how small business insurance operates across its retail and intermediated channels and provides recommendations to support stronger, more sustainable outcomes for small businesses in Australia. - read more |
| Why Every Australian Entrepreneur Needs Income Protection Insurance Entrepreneurship in Australia - a landscape overview: The allure of entrepreneurship in Australia is undeniable, with the promise of innovation, personal autonomy, and potentially limitless earnings. However, the path of an entrepreneur is often unpaved and unpredictable. Without the safety nets traditionally provided by corporate employment, Australian entrepreneurs must proactively safeguard their personal finances against the capricious winds of business fortune. - read more
|
| Why Life Insurance Matters: Securing Your Family's Financial Future Life insurance is a financial product designed to provide peace of mind by ensuring that your loved ones are financially secure even in your absence. It offers a safety net, paying out a sum of money upon the policyholder's death or, in some cases, after a set period. This payout can help cover expenses such as mortgage payments, children's education, or day-to-day living expenses, thereby maintaining family stability during difficult times. - read more
|
| Why Income Protection Insurance is Vital for Your Financial Security Income protection insurance is a type of coverage that provides you with a financial safety net in case you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It typically pays up to 75% of your regular salary, helping you to continue meeting your financial obligations during difficult times. - read more
|
| Income Protection for Health Workers: What You Need to Know Income protection insurance is a crucial financial safety net designed to replace a portion of your income if you're unable to work due to illness or injury. For many, it's a vital component of a robust financial plan, offering peace of mind and stability. But why is it particularly important for healthcare professionals in Australia? - read more
|
An optional provision added to an insurance policy that provides additional benefits or coverage.