A new national people2people recruitment poll conducted in May 2025 points to a sharp rise in illness-related workplace pressure, not only in the number of employees falling ill, but in how they respond when it happens.
Despite growing awareness of the importance of health and wellbeing, this year’s data reveals more Australians are showing up sick, often with no sick leave remaining, and often feeling guilty for even considering a day off. This is especially true for EAs, who do not want to let their executive down by being out of action for even a day.
Sick leave struggles: A year-on-year comparison
Last year’s 2024 poll found that over 60% of Australian workers turned up to work unwell due to having no remaining sick leave, with 55.4% doing so multiple times. Fast-forward to 2025, and that figure has remained just as concerning: 63% of workers this year admit to working while sick for the same reason: no leave left.
And while some may assume workers take advantage of sick leave, the numbers tell a different story. In 2024, 39% took three or fewer days of their 10-day entitlement. In 2025, that figure has jumped to 60%. The proportion of workers taking 10+ sick days has nearly halved, from 35% in 2024 to just 22% in 2025.
“This signals a worrying trend,” says Suhini Wijayasinghe, Head of HR Solutions at people2people Recruitment. “Employees are pushing through illness, likely due to leave pressure, guilt or workplace culture, and that doesn’t help anyone in the long run. Even when working from home, the expectation to stay ‘productive’ while unwell can prolong recovery, reduce overall effectiveness, and contribute to a toxic cycle where rest is devalued. We need to remember that working remotely is not a substitute for genuine rest. If you’re sick, you need to stop, not just shift locations.”
Why aren’t workers using sick leave? Beyond simply running out of leave, the poll asked Australians why they don’t take sick days; 22% feel guilty, 18% are too busy and 16% fear judgment. Wijayasinghe says, “This level of emotional resistance to sick leave is deeply ingrained. The data shows that many employees are too anxious or overwhelmed to take the rest they need, and that’s contributing to burnout and increased illness across teams.”
Vaccination is still not widespread despite employee support
Flu vaccinations are a proven preventive measure, yet actual uptake remains low:
- 84% of workers in 2025 say they support workplace flu vaccination programs and believe employers should offer them, ideally free or discounted.
- However, only 36% received the flu vaccine in the past 12 months, with another 4% saying they meant to but forgot, leaving 64% of the workforce exposed to the virus this season.
Winter wellness recommendations
- Use your leave when you’re unwell – rest now, perform better later.
- Speak with your manager if leave has run out – there may be flexible or unpaid options available.
- Get vaccinated early, especially if you missed it last year.
- Know your rights and procedures – understand how to apply for sick leave and what documentation is required.
The cost of ignoring illness is far greater than the cost of a few days’ absence. Long-term, a well-rested workforce is a more productive and loyal one.
