Sleep Deficiency and Absenteeism: What Employers Need to Know August 21, 2025 When people think about sick days, they often picture the flu or an injury. But one of the biggest silent contributors is something many Australians live with every day: poor sleep. The Link Between Sleep and Absenteeism Research shows that around 40% of Australians don’t get enough sleep, and the effects spill over into the workplace.1 One in four workers may miss at least one day of work a month because of sleep problems.2 That’s a staggering impact when you consider that sick days as a whole already cost the Australian economy an estimated $32.5 billion each year.2 Poor sleep is a major part of this hidden drain. Sleep deprivation doesn’t just mean groggy mornings—it has real consequences. It reduces focus, slows reaction times, and impairs judgement.3 Studies show that after moderate sleep loss, performance can be just as poor—or worse—than someone at the legal alcohol limit.4 This means tired staff are not only less productive but also more prone to mistakes and accidents, with research suggesting workers with sleep problems face a 1.6 times higher risk of injury.5 Quality Matters as Much as Quantity Most adults need 7–9 hours of sleep and too much or too little sleep can be an issue.6 It’s not just about sleep quantity—conditions like obstructive sleep apnea can fragment sleep, causing repeated awakenings that leave you feeling unrefreshed.7 Even if someone spends enough time in bed, untreated sleep disorders can silently undermine recovery, leaving workers fatigued and at higher risk of absenteeism. What Employers Can Do Employers have more influence over sleep-related absenteeism than they might think. By fostering a healthier workplace culture, businesses can support better sleep outcomes and, in turn, improve attendance and productivity. Practical steps include2: Set realistic expectations: Avoid encouraging after-hours work or late-night emails. Promote awareness: Normalise conversations about sleep health and its importance. Model good behaviour: Leaders who respect downtime set the tone for their teams. Offer flexibility where possible: Even small changes can help employees balance rest and work demands. Better Sleep Hygiene for Everyone On the individual level, healthy sleep routines can make a big difference. Experts recommend8: Going to bed and waking up at consistent times. Getting natural daylight exposure during the day. Avoiding caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bed. Switching off screens an hour before bedtime. Creating a quiet, cool, and dark sleep environment. The Bottom Line Poor sleep is more than just a personal issue—it’s costing businesses and the broader economy. Employers who support rest are investing in healthier, safer, and more productive workplaces. And for individuals, prioritising sleep isn’t indulgent—it’s essential. If you’re worried about your sleep—or experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue, difficulty staying awake, or loud snoring—speak to your doctor. Addressing sleep issues early can improve not just your health, but also your work and quality of life. How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time. If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au. ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply. References “Asleep on the Job: Costs of Inadequate Sleep in Australia | Special Sleep Reports.” Www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au, www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/special-sleep-reports/asleep-on-the-job-costs-of-inadequate-sleep-in-australia. “Sickness Absenteeism Is Associated with Sleep Problems Independent of Sleep Disorders.” Sleephealthfoundation.org.au, Sleep Health Foundation, 20 Sept. 2023, www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/news-and-articles/sickness-absenteeism-is-associated-with-sleep-problems-independent-of-sleep-disorders. Khan, Mohammad, and Hamdan Al-Jahdali. “The Consequences of Sleep Deprivation on Cognitive Performance.” King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, vol. 28, no. 2, 28 Apr. 2023, pp. 91–99, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10155483/, https://doi.org/10.17712/nsj.2023.2.20220108. Williamson, A M, and Anne-Marie Feyer. “Moderate Sleep Deprivation Produces Impairments in Cognitive and Motor Performance Equivalent to Legally Prescribed Levels of Alcohol Intoxication.” Occupational and Environmental Medicine, vol. 57, no. 10, 2000, pp. 649–55, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10984335, https://doi.org/10.1136/oem.57.10.649. Uehli, Katrin, et al. “Sleep Problems and Work Injuries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Sleep Medicine Reviews, vol. 18, no. 1, Feb. 2014, pp. 61–73, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1087079213000087, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2013.01.004. Sleep Health Foundation. “How Much Sleep Do You Really Need? | Sleep Health Foundation.” Www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au, 12 Jan. 2024, www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-topics/how-much-sleep-do-you-really-need. Soenen, Stijn, et al. “Sleep Health Primary Care Clinical Resource.” Australian Journal of General Practice, vol. 53, no. 6, 1 June 2024, pp. 349–355, https://doi.org/10.31128/ajgp-03-23-6779. “National Sleep Foundation Releases Recommendations to Be Your Best Slept Self® This Summer.” National Sleep Foundation, 14 June 2022, www.thensf.org/national-sleep-foundation-releases-recommendations-to-be-your-best-slept-self-this-summer/.
