ABOUT THE INDUSTRY

The world we live in today would not be possible without the use of transport and the innovations that have come from it. Millions of people depend on trucks, couriers, planes, trains, buses and boats to get from place to place and to deliver and receive goods, products and raw materials for industry, business and domestic needs.

The transport industry employs over half a million people across four major sectors: transport and logistics, maritime, aviation and rail. There are also numerous other smaller sectors contributing to Australia’s network of transport operators and workers. Australia would be very different without the transport industry.

The transport industry employs males and females of all ages, however the average worker in the transport industry is male and 54 years.

10% of the world’s Maritime trade passes through Australian ports and 95% of Australian exports are transported by sea.

During 2017 the Aviation sector carried over 60 million domestic passengers and over 1 million tons of international scheduled air freight.

The Rail sector has an estimated annual revenue of $25.52 billion, adding $10.43 billion to the Australia economy in 2017.

HEALTH AND SAFETY FOR TRANSPORT WORKERS

Australian workers compensation data 2019-20 provides important insights for the health and safety of transport, postal and warehouse workers. Whilst the majority of workers compensation claims are physical injuries, mental health for transport workers has been identified as a significant concern.

Transport, postal and warehouse workers are 4th highest for serious workers compensation claims.

Highest fatality rate amongst workers (15.6 deaths per 100,000 workers) and second highest fatalities per industry (20% of total fatalities).

8% of serious claims were related to mental stress

Nearly 1 in 2 (46%) Australians aged 16–85 have experienced a mental disorder during their lifetime

Approximately 54% of people with a mental illness do not access any treatment and men are at greatest risk of suicide but least likely to seek help.

Contributors to and Symptoms of Poor Mental Health

There are a number of factors that can affect mental health. These can include long hours/shifts, work pressure, job insecurity, work place conflict, traumatic events, workplace bullying and violence. Workers may experience physical, psychological and behavioural symptoms that can significantly impact workers and their work.

If left untreated, poor mental health can have a number of significant effects:

• Drop in work performance

• Depression, anxiety and sleeping difficulties

• Personal stress

• Reduction in personal physical wellbeing

• Family or financial stress

• Drug, alcohol or gambling problems

• Suicide or self-harm