Dissatisfied Aussie workers cause AUD $15.8bn loss yearly

SafetyCulture's report reveals that dissatisfaction among Australian frontline workers results in an annual productivity loss estimated at AUD $15.8 billion.

The "Feedback from the Field" report, produced by SafetyCulture, surveyed over 10,000 workers, including 2,010 from Australia, across six countries. It outlines the challenges faced by the frontline workforce, including inefficiencies and outdated tools.

The survey indicates that 76% of Australian workers experience some level of dissatisfaction in their employment. The most common issues cited by workers include unreasonable expectations leading to burnout (37%), slow responses to issues or risks (36%), and pressure to cut corners (33%). These factors contribute significantly to reduced motivation and productivity.

Australian workers reportedly lose approximately 6.59 hours each month due to their dissatisfaction, impacting productivity and manifesting as downtime, errors, or absenteeism.

Sam Byrnes, SafetyCulture's Chief Product Officer, stated, "Frontline workers are telling us they feel unheard, overstretched, and compromised. On top of this, there is a strained relationship between employees and management that isn't conducive to a healthy workplace culture or optimal outputs."

Byrnes further emphasised the need for organisational leaders to address frontline challenges and enhance communication, saying, "It's time businesses woke up to the fact that listening to people on the frontline is one of the fastest ways to improve the bottom line."

The report also highlights a noticeable disconnect between management and frontline employees, with a "them versus us" mentality noted by 52% of all respondents, including 64% of management and 53% of frontline employees. This divide is particularly acute in industries such as distribution, logistics, and transport.

The study indicates that 62% of Australian workers anticipate a future "brain drain" due to skills shortages and ineffective knowledge-sharing processes. This contrasts with other regions, with Australia showing the highest concerns.

In addition to skills concerns, 62% of Australian workers reported dissatisfaction with their tools and IT systems, citing outdated systems, an excess of tools, and equipment not fit for purpose. Workers lose an estimated 5.70 hours per month due to inefficient tools, costing businesses around AUD $13.7 billion annually.

SafetyCulture's response, as explained by Byrnes, involves using insights from workers to develop a platform that meets their needs, enhancing safety and performance. "Workers are only as effective as their tools. That's why we've gathered insights from the frontline at every step of developing the SafetyCulture platform," he said.

The report's findings point to significant areas for improvement, which, if addressed, could greatly enhance efficiency and employee satisfaction within the frontline workforce in Australia and beyond.