As an Australian employee, you may have experienced workplace burnout or felt trapped in a toxic work environment. But did you know that these issues are more prevalent in Australia than ever, with empirical evidence highlighting their negative impact on employee health and organizational productivity?
This is most prevalent as businesses seek to wrap up a strong FY23, whilst simultaneously planning a successful launch of FY24 business objectives. It is important during this time both employers and employees recognise and respect these additional stresses in day to day operations and people management. In this data-driven analysis, we’ll explore the latest statistics on workplace burnout, toxic workplaces, and their impact on employee health and productivity in Australia.
Workplace Burnout in Australia:
Employee burnout has become a growing concern in Australia, with 40% of employees experiencing burnout over the last three years. The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified the issue, with 78% of employees reporting burnout due to remote work challenges, work-life balance issues, and increased workload. A study by Medibank found that workplace stress costs the Australian economy $14.81 billion per year, with stress-related absenteeism and presenteeism contributing to lost productivity.
Toxic Workplaces in Australia:
Toxic workplaces are characterized by negative attitudes, poor communication, and unrealistic expectations. A survey by the Australian HR Institute found that 52% of employees have experienced bullying or harassment at work, and 25% have witnessed bullying or harassment. Poor executive leadership is a common sign of a toxic work environment, with 41% of employees saying that their manager or leadership is the main source of their stress at work. Additionally, a lack of recognition and reward for employees was identified as a key issue in toxic workplace culture.
Impact on Employee Health in Australia:
The negative impact of workplace burnout and toxic workplaces on employee health in Australia is significant. A study by BeyondBlue found that workplace bullying and harassment is a leading cause of stress, with 91% of employees experiencing stress due to bullying and harassment. Additionally, 70% of Australian employees say that workplace stress has affected their physical health, and 76% say it has affected their mental health.
Impact on Organizational Productivity in Australia:
The impact of workplace burnout and toxic workplaces goes beyond employee health, also affecting organizational productivity in Australia. A study by PwC found that mental health conditions are the leading cause of productivity loss, costing Australian employers $17 billion per year. Additionally, toxic workplace culture leads to a decline in employee engagement, resulting in lower productivity and higher turnover rates.
Addressing Workplace Burnout, Toxic Workplaces, and Executive Leadership:
It’s essential to take action to address workplace burnout, toxic workplace culture, and poor executive leadership. Employers can take steps to create a healthy work environment, such as promoting work-life balance, providing support to employees, and addressing workplace bullying or harassment. Executive leadership should be trained on how to create a positive workplace culture, recognize and reward employees, and provide support to their team. Employees can also take action, such as speaking with their manager, seeking support from colleagues or a mental health professional, or finding a new job that prioritizes employee well-being.
At APSG, we believe that a quality recruitment consultancy has a responsibility to support not just their client but also their candidate’s workplace health; recognising we have a significant ethical responsibility to be selective and discerning in our partnerships. We prioritize transparency, honesty, and fairness while maintaining the utmost level of professionalism. We take the time to partner only with clients who have a positive work culture, ethical practices, and a genuine commitment to their employees, ensuring that we recommend job openings that align with the candidate’s values and long-term goals. This is as reflected in APSG’s core pillars and is part of the APSG promise to both clients and candidates, and our endeavour to effect positive change within the recruitment industry.
Our commitment to ethical practices does not end with immediate placement. We go beyond that, supporting our candidates even after placement by focusing on finding them a workplace that will support them long-term. Join the APSG family today and receive unparalleled support that goes beyond mere placement.
Don’t let workplace burnout, toxic workplaces, and poor executive leadership impact your health and career. Use this data-driven analysis to recognize the signs and take action today. Contact us on 0432 605 482 or visit www.apsgtalent.com.au to join the APSG family and receive the support you deserve.
*If you are experiencing significant burnout, it is important to seek professional help. We advise contacting Beyond Blue at www.beyondblue.org.au for support and resources.

THE AUTHOR
Nathanael Deleon
Founder & Director – Australian Project Solutions Group