Landlords Insurance Online :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults

Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults

Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults?w=400
Recent findings highlight a significant trend: an increase in Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims among 30- to 40-year-olds, with mental health as a key factor.
Over the past decade, these claims have soared, the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports.

KPMG's report, "Australia’s Mental Health Check Up," presents data showing a 732% increase in TPD claims in this age group. Mental health issues now account for 36% of claims, a stark rise from 10.1% in 2013. The shift places mental health at the forefront of reasons for early workforce withdrawal.

Men are disproportionately affected, with a 59% greater likelihood of leaving jobs for mental health reasons. This pattern is emerging earlier, with the average age of claimants dropping from 48.8 years in 2013 to 46.5 years in 2022.

CALI CEO Christine Cupitt expressed concern over the trend's broader impact. "The unprecedented number of people leaving the workforce permanently in the prime of their working life has huge implications for them personally, for their loved ones, for our national economy, and for our already stretched government support systems,” she stated.

Australia's life insurers are not only collecting data but are also becoming more involved in addressing mental health impacts. “These are very concerning generational trends that show the frequency and severity of mental ill-health is rising exponentially in our community,” Cupitt highlighted.

The report underscores another finding: white-collar workers have a slightly higher propensity to claim disability benefits due to mental health issues compared to blue-collar peers. Specifically, they are 7% more prone to claim permanent and 14% more likely to request temporary disability.

Briallen Cummings, KPMG Partner, elaborated, “The significant rise in mental health conditions over the past decade is a real concern for the community and this is reflected in the life insurance data shown in our report.” She noted the growing severity and prevalence of these conditions making a tangible mark on societal well-being.

The report also attributes 80% of the decade-long increase in TPD claims to mental health, with annual growth nearing 10%. This far surpasses the 0.5% yearly rise for claims due to physical ailments.

Cupitt mentioned potential consequences for insurance coverage accessibility. "While governments are already thinking seriously about Australians’ mental health, we now have further evidence that our community needs more including a stronger and earlier safety net to keep people from falling through the cracks,” she remarked.

These findings suggest significant challenges and potential shifts in how mental health is managed within the workplace and by insurers. KPMG and CALI's research presents a call to action for enhanced support systems and preventative measures to address the burgeoning crisis.

Published:Friday, 6th Dec 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Insurance News

Insurance Landscape Transformed: New Advice Reforms on the Horizon Insurance Landscape Transformed: New Advice Reforms on the Horizon
02 Jan 2025: Paige Estritori

As the financial services industry braces for a wave of transformative reforms, the Australian government’s introduction of regulations permitting insurers to offer 'simple' guidance marks a pivotal moment. This initiative is expected to enhance consumer outcomes significantly, positioning the sector for a more adaptive future. - read more
A Vintage Car Owner Faces Claims Rejection After Repair Nightmare A Vintage Car Owner Faces Claims Rejection After Repair Nightmare
31 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

An unfortunate saga has unfolded for a vintage car enthusiast, whose quest for a quick restoration has led to a legal quagmire. The owner of a classic 1966 Pontiac GTO is now grappling with the implications of a failed insurance claim, following a series of distressing events surrounding the repairs. - read more
Woolworths Responds to Car Insurance Pricing Blunder with Customer Refunds Woolworths Responds to Car Insurance Pricing Blunder with Customer Refunds
31 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

Woolworths has taken significant steps to rectify an ongoing issue involving overcharging of its car insurance customers, igniting discussions around transparency and pricing accuracy in the insurance industry. - read more
New Alliances for Restoration: RACQ Joins RIA Australasia New Alliances for Restoration: RACQ Joins RIA Australasia
24 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for the restoration industry in Australia, RACQ Insurance has become the latest insurer to align with the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) Australasia. This follows closely behind Suncorp's recent membership, highlighting a trend of increased insurer involvement in the sector. - read more
Building Resilience: ICA Aligns Floods Inquiry Plan Building Resilience: ICA Aligns Floods Inquiry Plan
19 Dec 2024: Paige Estritori

The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) is strategically addressing the recommendations from recent inquiries into flood responses and code of practice in its latest updates. Acknowledging the variety and complexity of the suggestions, ICA supports 78 out of the total recommendations presented, tackling them in a staged and structured manner. - read more


Landlords Insurance Articles

The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance
As a property investor, understanding the different types of insurance available is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just starting, having the right coverage can safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind. With various options out there, knowing which insurance policies to choose can make all the difference in protecting your assets. - read more
Comprehensive Guide: What Does Landlord Insurance Cover in Australia? Comprehensive Guide: What Does Landlord Insurance Cover in Australia?
Owning a rental property can be a great investment, but it also comes with its own set of risks and responsibilities. Protecting your investment should be a top priority, and that's where landlord insurance comes into play. It provides peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected events that could otherwise prove costly. - read more
How Much Life Insurance Do You Really Need? A Family's Guide to Assessment How Much Life Insurance Do You Really Need? A Family's Guide to Assessment
Life insurance is one of those cornerstones of financial planning that often gets overlooked. Yet, the importance of life insurance in safeguarding your family's future cannot be overstated. It's a robust financial instrument that provides peace of mind, knowing that your loved ones will be financially secure in the event of your untimely passing. This introductory section lays the groundwork for understanding why life insurance is pivotal in your family's financial health. - read more
The Role of Rehabilitation Benefits in Income Protection Insurance The Role of Rehabilitation Benefits in Income Protection Insurance
When the unexpected strikes, such as an illness or injury hindering our ability to earn a living, the financial repercussions can be devastating. This is where income protection insurance becomes a pivotal part of our financial safety net, ensuring a stream of income during challenging times. Income protection insurance is specifically designed to replace a significant portion of your salary if you're unable to work due to medical reasons, providing peace of mind and financial stability when you need it most. - read more
Assessing the Insurance needs of your Australian Labour Hire firm Assessing the Insurance needs of your Australian Labour Hire firm
As a labour hire firm, it is important to assess your insurance needs to protect your business from the risks it faces. Assessing your insurance needs involves identifying potential risks specific to your industry and taking steps to mitigate them. With the right coverage, you can protect your employees, clients, and business assets from unforeseeable circumstances, which could otherwise result in costly lawsuits or accidents. - read more
The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance The Key Differences Between Landlord and Homeowners Insurance
As a property investor, understanding the different types of insurance available is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or just starting, having the right coverage can safeguard your investment and provide peace of mind. With various options out there, knowing which insurance policies to choose can make all the difference in protecting your assets. - read more



Knowledgebase
Incontestability Clause:
A provision in a life insurance policy that prevents the insurer from voiding coverage due to a misstatement by the insured after a certain period.