It’s looked at the figures for Glen Innes, Inverell and Armadale and concluded: “Although psychological claims account for around four per cent of claims across Armidale, Glen Innes and Inverell they cost on average nearly $28,000, compared to the average claim of $16,785.”

The agency’s “Northern Region Mobile Engagement Manager, David Huxley, said that there were more than 19,000 people in the workforce in this region, with 427 claims for injury compensation in the past year.

“The largest employers in the region are agriculture, retail and education but the bulk of the claims are in manufacturing and health, making up 54 per cent of all the claims in the area.”

He said that the young (those between 16 and 25) were the biggest group making claims, though they were likely to be off work for 16 days, “which is lower than the average 25 days taken off in the area”.

Mental health of workers was a concern, he said: “Psychological claims can be among the most complex and costly. The longer people are off work, the greater their risk of social isolation and the increased likelihood of the onset or escalation of mental health issues, which can further delay recovery.

“Although psychological claims account for around four per cent of claims across Armidale, Glen Innes and Inverell they cost on average nearly $28,000, compared to the average claim of $16,785. Employees with psychological claims return to work after 112 days on average.

“It makes sense to be focused on building a psychologically resilient workplace culture. This starts with prevention of psychological injury at work and also providing support for workers who may be experiencing a problem”.

He said they would be working more closely with employers to prevent injuries.There would be a forum for employers in the region in Armidale on Wednesday, July 25.