Transport Sector Mental Health Reaches National Parity
New industry data shows transport and logistics workers face significant burnout despite improvements in general wellbeing.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Transportation
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The 2026 Thriving Workplace Index report reveals that mental health scores for Australian transport and logistics employees have risen to match national averages. However, 32 per cent of workers in the sector still report symptoms of burnout.
Why it matters
The findings highlight a critical need for continued mental health support, as the industry navigates a 68 out of 100 Thriving Score. Employees who utilise available resources report higher wellbeing levels, identifying a clear path for future sector improvements.
The transport sector achieved a Thriving Score of 68 out of 100, an improvement over the previous industry score of 65. Employees in the sector currently lose two days per month to poor mental health, compared to 2.8 days for the national workforce.
The players
Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds
This organisation provides mental health support and resources to the Australian transport and logistics sector.
The details
Linehaul truck drivers currently report the lowest wellbeing scores of any role within the transport industry, with 38 per cent suffering from burnout. Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds continues to offer support via its website, podcast, toolbox talks, and mobile app to combat these high rates.
Timeline
October 2026 marks the National Safe Work Month campaign.
Market Landscape
The transport sector remains one of 19 industries ranked in the index, reflecting broader challenges in managing worker wellbeing in high-pressure logistics environments. This data serves as a benchmark for ongoing industry efforts to reduce burnout relative to other national sectors.
Transport and logistics employees may find increased access to mental health resources such as toolbox talks and podcasts as the industry seeks to boost participation. Workers struggling with burnout are encouraged to utilise support tools to bridge the gap between current wellbeing levels and national averages.
The takeaway
The report suggests that awareness of mental health programmes significantly improves individual wellbeing scores. Industry participants should prioritise active engagement with available support services to address the high burnout rates observed in linehaul driving roles.
Further reading
For more on industry standards, visit the Transportation section.
More information
Access the National Safe Work Month activity kit for further resources on workplace wellbeing.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Australasian Transport News - Publishing Services.
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