With the Australian population ageing, chronic disease is on the rise. Living with chronic conditions can have a substantial impact on an individual’s health, affect their quality of life and can impact their participation in the workforce.2
In 2022, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reported that chronic conditions are an ongoing cause of considerable burden and disability in Australia. It estimated that almost half (47%) of Australians had at least one common chronic condition and a quarter (25%) of people aged 15–44 had chronic mental and behavioural conditions.
For many people, their condition and resulting treatment may prompt them to reconsider next steps in their career. Moreover, changes in physical capability, mental capability, or the length of time away from work, may make returning to a previous role more difficult.3
As someone who lives with a chronic health condition and successfully returned to the workforce, Morningside resident, Matthew, knows firsthand how difficult it can be.
Matthew, now aged 20 years old, is one of the 11.6 million Australians who live with a chronic health condition, living with multiple mental health conditions, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder.
Managing the symptoms of these conditions for much of his life, Matthew was advised to
