Survey reveals a concerning trend in the workplace.

 

A comprehensive survey of 1400 Australian workers asked about their experiences at work since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has painted a bleak picture of the workforce.

 

Australian workers are exhausted, unwell, at risk of quitting, and largely unprepared for future workplace challenges driven by automation and artificial intelligence, a new report from the University of Melbourne Work Futures Hallmark Research Initiative reveals.

 

The findings, published in the 2023 State of the Future of Work Report, reveals Australian workers were in poorer physical and mental health since the pandemic began, with prime aged workers (between 25-55 years of age) significantly impacted, one third of whom had considered quitting.

 

Report co-author and sociologist Dr Brendan Churchill said: “With high rates of fatigue and exhaustion among younger and middle-aged workers, it’s no surprise that over a third of prime aged workers in Australia are considering quitting their jobs.

 

“Australian workplaces must prioritise workers’ well-being into the recovery to provide greater support in addressing burnout and mental distress, he said.”

 

Report co-author Professor David Bissell added: “We found that most Australians aren’t too worried about being replaced by AI and automation at work, and believe that their skills are adequate to meet the challenges ahead.

 

“However, our research shows that Australians are cautious adopters of new technologies in the workplace. One-in-five say they only adopt new technologies in the workplace when they are forced to, so we need to understand the reasons behind this and facilitate technology use that is inclusive to all."