Gallagher Bassett Australia has released new data for National Safe Work Month 2025, highlighting the most frequent causes of workplace injuries and the ongoing need for robust safety practices.
According to the company, its teams processed around 20,000 workers’ compensation claims for physical injuries in 2024.
The primary sources of these claims included incidents involving moving objects, falls, slips, trips, and injuries related to body stressing.
“These types of injuries can be prevented through comprehensive training and effective risk management systems,” said Deb Vounakis (pictured), head of sales and client services – personal injury at Gallagher Bassett.
She noted that the number of preventable injuries remains significant, underscoring the importance of proactive safety measures in the workplace.
As part of its 2025 campaign, Gallagher Bassett shared the experience of a young employee who sustained a severe injury at work, resulting in a prolonged hospitalisation and the amputation of a leg at age 19.
The individual credited a dedicated case manager for providing ongoing support throughout the recovery process.
“My case manager was always there for me and my family, helping behind the scenes and making sure I had everything I needed. Every little thing made me feel more like I did before my accident, which is the ultimate goal,” the worker said.
Vounakis added that while prevention is the preferred approach, having a reliable support team is essential when incidents do occur.
“Safe Work Month is about ensuring everyone returns home safely. When injuries happen, timely and empathetic claims management is critical for recovery,” she said.
Gallagher Bassett said its approach to claims management is centred on individualised support.
“Each claim presents unique circumstances. Our focus is on helping injured workers return to work and daily life safely and efficiently, while also mitigating financial impacts for employers,” Vounakis said.
The company’s services aim to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery, supporting all parties involved in the claims process.
In addition to its focus on physical injuries, Gallagher Bassett has expanded its National Safe Work Month initiative to include psychological safety and mental health.
The 2025 campaign, titled “The Human Side of Safety,” is designed to encourage open conversations about mental health in the workplace and to promote early intervention strategies.
Emma Hosking, head of government partnerships at Gallagher Bassett Australia, reported a noticeable increase in mental health-related claims over the past five years.
“We have observed a steady rise in psychological injury claims. Our efforts are directed at supporting employers early and equipping our case managers with the necessary skills to handle these cases,” she said.
The campaign features video stories, including that of a truck driver who experienced a psychological injury after a workplace fatality. With support from his case manager, he was able to return to his previous role.
“I am back at my previous employment, in the construction game. To be honest, I’ve only been able to do it because of my case manager – he lifted me up,” the driver said.
Gallagher Bassett has partnered with government agencies in Tasmania and the Northern Territory to implement proactive health and well-being programs.
These initiatives focus on early detection, education, and fostering a workplace culture that reduces stigma around seeking help.
According to the company, participants have reported reductions in depression, anxiety, and lifestyle-related severity scores, indicating progress in psychological safety across participating organisations.
For further details on Gallagher Bassett’s Safe Work Month activities and personal injury claims services, professionals can visit the company’s website.
