Tackling Burnout in Australia—A Global Perspective

The Global Burnout Challenge: Insights and Solutions 

As a leader, when was the last time you checked in—really checked in—with your team?

Seven out of ten managers worldwide believe their teams’ wellbeing has improved over the past year. Yet, half of employees report that their mental health has worsened. This striking disconnect is not just a global phenomenon—it’s deeply felt here in Australia, especially as we grapple with the psychosocial hazards framework and its implications. 

Our recent psychosocial hazard legislation is not just a regulatory step forward; it’s a bold recognition of the need to prioritise mental health in the workplace. This legislation demands that organisations address systemic issues that contribute to burnout—issues that extend far beyond individual workloads. Globally, we are seeing a similar shift globally where countries are moving toward preventative strategies and systemic interventions. By holding organisations accountable for identifying and addressing psychosocial risks, Australia positions itself as a leader in this critical area of workplace safety and wellbeing. 

Burnout isn’t merely about excessive work. Research and practice now confirm that burnout often stems from frustration rather than workload. Lack of clarity, overwhelmed leaders, and unsupported teams amplify stress, leading to disengagement and declining morale.  

My work with the World Federation for Mental Health’s Workplace Mental Health committee, is showing me how countries worldwide are tackling this issue. The consistent message? Burnout is a systemic problem that requires systemic solutions. 

Leaders need to look beyond quick fixes and address root causes, such as lack of trust, ineffective communication, and absence of psychological safety. 

The real shift starts with honest, caring conversations. As a leader, when was the last time you checked in—really checked in—with your team?  And do your leaders feel capable and competent in having these critical conversations? 

I work with teams and leaders to build environments where burnout isn’t just mitigated but prevented. If you’re ready to explore how to support your team’s psychosocial wellbeing, let’s chat.  

Together, we can turn the tide on burnout and create workplaces where people thrive. Click here to schedule an obligation-free call.