TAL launches new campaign focused on mental health

TAL has launched a new campaign, working with youth media group The Daily Aus, and partners with the AFLW, aimed at promoting mental wellbeing.

Based on survey results of 1000 Australians aged 18 to 65+, the campaign identified common barriers to social connection, including tiredness, cost and distance from home, and aim to encourage Australians to find practical ways to make connection feel more manageable.

Suggestions included sending a 30-second voice note, taking a short walk while catching up with a friend, choosing a low-cost BYO catch-up in the park, or using a spare ticket to attend an AFLW game with someone else.

TAL said the campaign reflects its broader approach to mental health, which is evolving beyond paying claims to include stronger prevention, early support, recovery and care.

"We know more frequent social contact is associated with better overall health, and in particular our mental health. There is no one right way to connect," TAL head of mental health Glenn Baird said.

"For some people, it is a regular walk with a friend. For others, it is a family meal, a community group or a phone call. The best form of connection is the one people can actually keep doing."

Baird said social connection should be considered part of Australian's broader approach to wellbeing.

"Our research shows Australians deeply value their relationships but say the lack the time or resources to connect," Baird said.

"At the same time, most people - more than seven in 10 - are making time for activities that support their mental wellbeing . The opportunity is to bring these things together by treating connection as part of how we look after ourselves."

The campaign comes as insurers face significant strain, with a sharp rise in people unable to work due to illness or injury, particularly mental health conditions.

Research commissioned by the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) in May found around 8.5 million Australians accessed some form of income support in the past year, totalling $78.9 billion in payments.

Mental ill health was a key driver of the increase. It accounts for roughly one in three total and permanent disability claims and one in five income protection claims, placing sustained pressure on insurers and government programs.