Almost 700 Insurance News readers have supported mental health group R U OK? by completing our 2026 Wellbeing Survey. 

This year's survey, conducted in partnership with Allianz, seeks to understand wellness in Australia’s insurance industry, drawing on your anonymous feedback.

R U OK? Day is held on the second Thursday of September, and for every survey response, Insurance News will donate $1 to support its suicide prevention work.

Insurance professionals were active today in support of R U OK? Day 2026. 

The Underwriting Agencies Council urges professionals to ask, listen, and check in again.  

"Behind every submission, every claim and every handshake is a person having a good week or a hard one ... [These] small words, asked properly, can change someone's day. Sometimes a lot more than that," UAC says. 

Melbourne-based Deloitte cyber security leader Ben Walker shared on LinkedIn he has experienced anxiety and depression.  

"I have had bouts of 'The Black Dog' where I’ve not been able to get out of bed, be a fit and proper husband and father, and for prolonged periods, not been able to work. I see a psychologist frequently to help me," Mr Walker said.  

"I’m still learning how to spot when I am spiralling, before it gets too bad. The simple gesture of meaningfully asking me R U OK? means a lot. On this day, and every day – genuinely and authentically check in on your friends, family and colleagues." 

In Sydney, KPMG director cyber security Jay Hira says asking R U OK? is only the beginning.  

"We ask the question on the way past someone's desk, with our body already turned towards the lift ... The conversation only starts when the other person realises we are not in a hurry. If you ask a colleague whether they are OK, put the phone down, give them your full attention, and let the silence sit there long enough to be filled," Mr Hira said. 

This year’s Insurance News Wellbeing Survey questions include: could leadership do more to support mental wellbeing? Have you been bullied or harassed? What five factors most affect your mental health? Do you struggle to switch off? How do you think the broader community views the insurance industry?   

Results will be shared online and in our magazine, outlining the issues employers need to address. 

Past surveys flagged nepotism, "deals done in the pub” and a stubbornly poor public image. Still, 78% of last year's respondents said they would encourage school leavers to pursue insurance as a career. 

Take this year’s survey here.