Fewer than half of Australian workers believe their employers prioritise wellbeing over short-term business gains. How does your SME measure up?

Most workplaces now offer wellbeing programs—ranging from mental health support to physical activity initiatives—but their effectiveness varies. Let’s explore successes, challenges, and key lessons to take forward into 2025.

The Current State of Wellbeing

Monash University’s Workforce Health in Australia report highlights these findings:

• 40% of workers report pain interfering with work.
• 20% experience mental or behavioural conditions.
• 43% face high job demands; 42% battle low job control.
• A third exceed recommended alcohol guidelines; 25% meet national activity standards.

Engagement and accessibility remain common hurdles. Many employees perceive programs as poorly aligned with their needs, limiting utilisation and impact.

Success Stories from 2024

Tailored programs addressing mental and physical health, leadership participation, and tech-driven solutions showed measurable success. For instance, digital tools that allow employees to set personal goals while safeguarding privacy empowered many.

Persistent Challenges

Generic, one-size-fits-all programs often fail in diverse workplaces. SMEs frequently face resource limitations, and over-reliance on technology can lead to “tech fatigue,” reducing effectiveness.

The Role of Technology

Apps providing mindfulness exercises, activity trackers, and virtual counselling are popular, but not without drawbacks. Ensuring equal access for remote and rural employees is vital.

Diversity and Inclusion

Inclusive wellbeing programs tailored to employees’ cultural and personal needs proved most effective in 2024. Flexible mental health support and culturally sensitive initiatives outperform generic approaches. Resources like the Diversity Council of Australia’s Inclusion@Work Index can guide SMEs.

Recommendations for 2025

• Survey employees to align programs with their needs.
• Engage leadership to inspire participation.
• Offer a balanced mix of mental and physical health initiatives.

Key Takeaways

Wellbeing isn’t one-size-fits-all. By personalising initiatives and embracing inclusivity, SMEs can create impactful programs.

As your insurance broker or adviser, we’re ready to help you enhance your wellbeing approach while aligning it with your risk-management strategy.

If you would like to know more about strategies for improving the wellbeing in your SME, please CLICK HERE, or contact us for more information.