Nine in ten tradies experienced a work-related injury in the past year and one in two say they live with severe pain. The new data released ahead of Tradies National Health Month shows the backbone of Australia’s workforce is suffering as productivity pressures mount.

One in every ten Australian workers are a tradieⁱ, and one in four of them fear they will need to retire early because of stress on their bodies.ⁱⁱ  

The 2024 Tradies National Health Month Survey from the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) reports that nearly two in three tradies who have seen a physiotherapist experienced a significant reduction in, or eradication of, their pain.  

APA Occupational Health Physiotherapist Lucia Tsui says the survey data underscores the urgent need for accessible and appropriate pain management and preventive strategies for a sector disproportionately affected by workplace injuries and chronic conditions.

‘Pain affects every aspect of a person’s life, from playing with your kids, to your mood, sleep and even sex life – this is heavily reflected in the survey,’ Ms Tsui said.

The survey highlights  significant disparities in pain severity between male and female tradies, with females significantly more likely to describe their pain as severe.  

Millennials were found to be the most likely to sustain severe injuries, emphasising the need for targeted health interventions for younger workers.

The findings come amidst one of the worst trade shortages in the nation’s history.  

One in two tradies reported that the general skills shortage has negatively impacted their mental health and that poor mental health had decreased their physical healthⁱⁱⁱ.

‘With demand for skilled tradespeople at an all-time high, the physical and mental health of tradies is more important than ever.  

‘Untreated physical pain can significantly impact a person’s mental health and often leads to maladaptive coping strategies,’ Ms Tsui said.

The survey revealed that 87 per cent of tradies medicate or self-medicate to manage their pain, with 30 per cent resorting to drugs or alcohol. Self-medication can unfortunately lead to further health complications. Physiotherapy offers a healthier, evidence-based alternative.

‘Employers have a responsibility to their workers. Providing access to physiotherapy and mental health services are crucial for ensuring a healthier, more productive workforce. Unfortunately, only 35 per cent of tradies felt their employers understood or supported them with their health issues.’

Tradies reported they often reach out to friends and family about their pain, rather than seeking professional help^iv. Tradies National Health Month prompts tradies to prioritise their wellbeing and encourages employers, family members and friends to support them in addressing their pain so they can work safely and comfortably.

‘Our goal is to break the pain cycle by encouraging tradies to seek professional help, rather than rely on self-medication. Preventive physiotherapy can significantly reduce the risk of chronic injuries and improve overall health outcomes for tradies. We hope this campaign will raise awareness and provide much-needed support to our hardworking tradies,’ Ms Tsui said.  

Tradies National Health Month, held every August, was established by the Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) to highlight the unique position of physiotherapists in preventing and treating musculoskeletal issues that plague tradies throughout their careers.  

References

ⁱ Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 2021 (Usual residence data).

ⁱⁱ Australian Physiotherapy Association. Tradies National Health Survey, 2024.   

ⁱⁱⁱ Steel Blue, Tradies Survey, May 2024.

^iv Steel Blue, Tradies Survey, May 2024.

Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2021-22). Work-related injuries. ABS.