Education
Workers’ Compensation Stigma
Workers’ compensation is an insurance scheme designed to provide financial support and assistance to workers who become injured or ill while at work. This ensures that workers can make a safe return to work without the pressure of income loss.
Australia was one of the first countries to offer a systematic and comprehensive approach to workers’ compensation. With the start of the industrial revolution, there was a significant increase in workplace accidents and injuries, which led to demands for a system that could provide financial assistance to injured workers.
Today, workers’ compensation is essential for maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.
Workers’ compensation stigma is when an individual, group or the broader organisation discriminates against an injured or ill worker seeking workers’ compensation. This includes bullying, harassment, or organisational structures that penalise those affected.
Workers’ compensation stigma undermines the effectiveness of the process. It delays or prevents the disclosure of injuries or illnesses, reduces engagement with the claims process, and affects the recovery and return-to-work path.
The stigma has negative effects on the economy, increasing healthcare costs, and lowering productivity.
Reducing workers’ compensation stigma is a collective responsibility that can be undertaken through creating positive and supportive workplace cultures.
Independent research like the Griffith University report commissioned by Safe Work Australia as part of the National Return to Work Strategy 2020-2030 examine the causes, extent, and impacts of stigma on injured and ill workers; such studies can provide insights and recommendations for integrating stigma-reduction strategies.
To read more about workers’ compensation stigma and what you can do to combat it, click here.
Additional resources: