The latest MetLife Future Insights Report has revealed a significant discrepancy between what Australian employees expect and what corporations are delivering in terms of workplace wellbeing.
The report indicated that while a majority of companies profess a commitment to employee wellbeing, only a few take substantial measures to actualise it. Specifically, 87% of Australians reported that corporations are often vocal about wellbeing but lack substantial action.
Additionally, a notable 92% of Australians asserted that employers have a duty to care for their employees, a sentiment that slightly exceeds the global average of 88%.
The study also found that 90% of Australians believe better mental health safeguards could enhance job performance, compared to 87% on a global scale.
The report highlighted the importance of prioritising employee wellbeing over profit, with 86% of Australians suggesting that such an approach could foster business growth, slightly above the global perspective of 84%.
However, despite the strong desire for a wellbeing-focused society – expressed by 87% of Australians – only 58% feel that the current societal structures support this, a lower percentage than the global average of 64%.
MetLife recently launched several employee benefits to enhance workplace inclusivity. The initiative follows the company’s collaborative efforts with the DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Committee and insights gained from the Diversity Council of Australia and the MetLife Employee Benefits Trends Study.
