More than 100 Tasmania Police officers are currently off duty on mental-health compensation claims [1].
The surge in absences highlights a growing crisis in officer wellness and a failure to implement recommended preventative measures within the force.
As of May 2, 2026, the number of officers on such leave stands at 102 [1]. This figure represents a two-fold increase over the past five years, spanning from 2021 to 2026 [2].
The rise in mental health claims comes amid ongoing criticism regarding the department's internal support systems. In 2023, a coroner recommended that the police force implement mandatory wellbeing screenings every six months to identify at-risk officers early. However, those screenings have not been implemented, a gap in care that critics suggest may contribute to the rising number of claims.
The current situation leaves a significant portion of the workforce unavailable for active duty. The doubling of these claims [2] suggests that the stressors associated with policing in Tasmania are outpacing the available support mechanisms provided to staff.
While the department has not provided a detailed response to the current numbers, the lack of mandatory screenings remains a focal point for those calling for systemic reform. The trend indicates a sustained decline in the psychological health of the force over the last five years [2].
“More than 100 Tasmania Police officers are currently off duty on mental-health compensation claims.”
The doubling of mental health claims within the Tasmania Police indicates a systemic failure to address occupational stress and trauma. By ignoring the 2023 coroner's recommendation for mandatory screenings, the department has missed a critical opportunity for early intervention, resulting in more officers reaching a breaking point where full-time leave becomes the only option.
