No Leave, No Life

In today’s fast-paced, always-on work culture, taking a break can feel like a luxury. But skipping your annual leave might be doing more harm than good—to your health, your productivity, and even the economy.

Australia’s workplace culture has long wrestled with the balance between dedication and burnout. But with stress levels rising and workers hoarding leave entitlements, the call to reclaim your work–life balance is more important than ever.

Why Aussies Aren’t Taking Their Leave

Recent reports from the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that many employees are banking their leave entitlements instead of taking regular breaks. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Workload pressure or staff shortages
• Fear of falling behind or missing opportunities
• Economic uncertainty or saving for long-term travel
• Company culture that frowns upon time off

Yet research consistently shows that overworking leads to fatigue, reduced creativity, and poorer mental health. Put simply: not taking leave is bad for business and bad for you.

The Real Cost of Unused Annual Leave

According to recent estimates, Australians are collectively sitting on more than $40 billion worth of unused annual leave entitlements—a significant liability for employers and a missed wellbeing opportunity for workers.

From an employer’s perspective, encouraging staff to take leave not only avoids ballooning leave balances but also leads to improved morale, productivity and long-term retention.

From a personal perspective? Time off allows your brain to recharge, your body to rest, and your relationships to strengthen—making you more effective and focused when you return.

“No Leave, No Life”: A Timely Reminder

The federal government’s “No Leave, No Life” campaign, initially launched to stimulate the economy during the GFC, remains highly relevant in today’s climate. The message is simple: take your leave, support Australian tourism, and prioritise your wellbeing.

As Australia faces cost-of-living pressures and skills shortages, many industries—especially hospitality and tourism—continue to recover and rely on local travellers. Choosing to take your break in Australia can support regional communities, small businesses, and national job security.

Need inspiration? Explore destinations via Tourism Australia or find hidden gems closer to home for a budget-friendly recharge.

Working Holiday or Work-Life Balance Reset?

If you’re between roles or rethinking your career, a longer break might be exactly what you need. Use the time to reflect, travel, or even upskill. Consider taking an online course to prepare for your next chapter:

• Mental health and wellbeing courses
• Personal development courses
• Business and leadership courses

Investing in yourself is never a waste. It’s often the reset that sets the stage for meaningful growth.

What Employers Can Do

Employers can support healthier leave culture by:

• Encouraging regular leave planning
• Modelling good behaviour from leadership
• Allowing flexible time off arrangements
• Communicating the long-term benefits of rest and recovery

It’s a win–win: rested employees perform better, reduce burnout-related turnover, and help build a positive team culture.

Make Leave Part of Your Career Plan

Taking time off isn’t lazy—it’s leadership. In fact, smart professionals integrate downtime into their broader career development strategy.

So whether it’s a week in Byron Bay, a long weekend in the mountains, or a digital detox at home, don’t let your leave go to waste. Book the break. Your mind, your team, and your future self will thank you.