Supporting mental health across the legal profession
Why this partnership matters
We understand that supporting our members goes beyond financial wellbeing, that’s why we’ve partnered with Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) to help raise awareness of mental health challenges and promote practical ways to better support each other.
Mental health is one of the most significant challenges facing the legal profession today.
- Mental health conditions are now the leading cause of Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims in Australia, accounting for around one in three claims.
- One in five Australians experiences mental ill‑health each year.
- Mental health claims are often more complex and involve longer recovery periods than physical injuries.
- Mental health conditions are one of the most prevalent drivers of long‑term claims.
The earlier we recognise and respond to mental health concerns, the better the outcomes for individuals, workplaces and long‑term wellbeing.
A focus on awareness and prevention
For too long, people have faced mental health challenges without adequate support, with help only provided after someone reaches crisis point or leaves the workforce.
Research shows that early intervention significantly improves recovery outcomes and a greater chance of returning to work.
Through our partnership with MHFA, we are focused on building a more informed, supportive legal profession.
Raising awareness of mental health challenges
Encouraging open, stigma-fee conversations
Building skills to recognise when someone may be struggling
Supporting earlier intervention and timely access to help
What is Mental Health First Aid?
Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is an internationally recognised, evidence‑based training program that teaches people how to:
- Recognise the signs of mental health challenges.
- Approach and support someone who may be struggling.
- Respond to mental health crises.
- Guide people towards appropriate professional support.
Just as physical first aid equips people to respond to injury, MHFA provides the confidence and skills to support mental health in everyday situations.
Supporting members at every stage
Mental health can impact every aspect of life, including the ability to work and your financial wellbeing.
Through our partnership with MHFA, and our broader wellbeing approach with partners like Zurich, we are focused on:
- Raising awareness and supporting early action.
- Helping members navigate challenges with confidence.
- Connecting people to the right support when they need it.
- Improving long‑term wellbeing outcomes for the legal community.
Take the next step
If you would like to book an individual or a small group into an existing workshop, we have provided links to workshops that are facilitated by our industry partners.
Learn more about Mental Health First Aid training or to organise a workshop for your workplace.
Sources
- EML, The Complexity Premium: The Cross-Scheme Pressures Impacting Claims in Super (2026).
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Mental Health Services in Australia.
- Zurich Australia, legalsuper claims data, FY2025.
- Mental Health First Aid International (MHFA).
Pike, C. & Quinlan, E. (2025), Lawyers' Perspectives on How to Manage the Psychosocial Risks They Face in the Legal Assistance Sector, Psychiatry, Psychology and Law