Benefits of returning to work

Getting back to work safely is an important part of recovery 

Research shows it helps your health and wellbeing for both physical and mental injuries.

The longer you’re off work, the harder it is to recover and return. Read about how to plan a return to work.

The research from The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) found:  

• 20 days off – 70% chance of returning to work
• 45 days off – 50% chance of returning to work
• 70 days – 35% chance of returning to work. 

Staying connected to your workplace, even if your work tasks are adjusted, means you can maintain a daily routine and get back some control and independence. 

Ways you can return to work

• Going back to your usual job
• Working fewer hours  
• Lighter or different duties  
• Moving to a new role 

Benefits to your health and wellbeing  

An early return to ‘good work’, if you are able, is proven to be far better for you than staying at home to recover.

‘Good work’ is work that provides you with positive health benefits. It aims to balance your needs with those of your employer and society in general to ensure good outcomes for everybody.

Good work supports your physical, mental and emotional health.     
  
There are four elements (domains) of good work. Not all of these need to be present for work to be ‘good’ as they don’t apply equally to all jobs.

1. Engages workers: when an employer engages with their workers it creates a positive workplace culture.
2. Engaging community: good work is also positive for customers, family, extended networks, not just the worker.
3. Fairness and transparency: good work happens in a workplace that values respect and is free from discrimination and bullying.
4. Work design: there must be a good match between the worker, the demands of the job, and the support available.