Compare Life Insurance :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults

Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults

Recent findings highlight a significant trend: an increase in Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims among 30- to 40-year-olds, with mental health as a key factor.
Over the past decade, these claims have soared, the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports.

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:

Insurance News

Human Factors Identified as Leading Causes in Major Truck Accidents Human Factors Identified as Leading Causes in Major Truck Accidents
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Recent findings from the National Truck Accident Research Centre's (NTARC) 2025 Major Incident Investigation Report have brought to light the significant role human error plays in major truck accidents across Australia. The report, supported by National Transport Insurance (NTI), indicates that human factors such as inattention, distraction, and inappropriate speed are the predominant causes of these incidents. - read more
AFCA Sides with Freight Company in Dangerous Goods Disclosure Dispute AFCA Sides with Freight Company in Dangerous Goods Disclosure Dispute
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently ruled in favour of a freight company in a dispute over the disclosure of transporting dangerous goods. This decision provides valuable insights into the obligations of transport companies regarding insurance disclosures. - read more
Navigating Rising Premiums: Challenges for Australian Insurers in 2026 Navigating Rising Premiums: Challenges for Australian Insurers in 2026
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2026, Australian insurers are confronting a trio of significant challenges: escalating premium costs, persistent cyber threats, and a tightening labour market. These issues are reshaping the industry's priorities and strategies. - read more
The Future of Insurance: Australia's Insurtech Market Set for Explosive Growth The Future of Insurance: Australia's Insurtech Market Set for Explosive Growth
14 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia's insurtech sector is on the brink of a significant transformation, with projections indicating a surge from $377 million in 2025 to an impressive $4.2 billion by 2034. This anticipated growth, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.68%, reflects the increasing integration of digital technologies within the insurance industry. - read more


Life Insurance Articles

From Illness to Injury: Understanding the Scope of Income Protection Insurance From Illness to Injury: Understanding the Scope of Income Protection Insurance
In the uncertain times we face today, where both health and economic climates are unpredictable, safeguarding your financial stability becomes paramount. This is where income protection insurance steps in as an essential safety net. For many Australian families, it's the buffer that ensures life's financial commitments are met, even when ability to work is compromised. - read more
The Importance of Comparing Health Insurance Extras for Maximum Savings The Importance of Comparing Health Insurance Extras for Maximum Savings
Health insurance is more than just a precautionary measure; it's a vital component in managing both your health and financial well-being. In Australia, where healthcare costs can quickly escalate, health insurance extras serve as a buffer, ensuring that services like dental, optical, and physiotherapy remain within reach. These extras can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expenses you might otherwise encounter for non-hospital treatments. - read more
How Accidental Income Protection Insurance Can Provide Peace of Mind How Accidental Income Protection Insurance Can Provide Peace of Mind
Accidental income protection insurance is a type of policy that provides financial support if you are unable to work due to an accident. Unlike regular income protection insurance, which can cover illnesses and injuries, this specific insurance focuses solely on accidents. - read more
Understanding Income Protection: How Much Insurance Do You Really Need? Understanding Income Protection: How Much Insurance Do You Really Need?
Income protection insurance is a type of policy designed to provide you with a safety net in case you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. The concept hinges on securing a portion of your earned income when adverse health conditions impede your ability to generate revenue through your profession. This protection becomes a financial bulwark, ensuring that despite unforeseen health challenges, your livelihood is safeguarded and your lifestyle can be maintained as closely as possible to your current standard. - read more


Start Here !
life insurance
Apply now for your free Insurance assessment and price comparisons!

Start Here

Life Cover Amount:
Postcode:


All quotes are provided free and without obligation. We respect your privacy.
Knowledgebase
Whole Life Insurance:
A type of life insurance that provides coverage for the insured's entire lifetime, with a savings component that builds cash value.