If you’ve ever suffered burnout, you know the warning signs all too well. That creeping exhaustion that doesn’t go away with sleep. The loss of joy in work that once energised you. The quiet resignation that maybe this is just how it is. But what if it doesn’t have to be?
Burnout doesn’t just affect how you feel today — it changes what you need from work going forward. Once you’ve been through it, you see things differently. You value boundaries. You pay attention to how leaders respond to stress. You know the importance of taking leave, speaking up, and being heard.
The good news? Employers are starting to see what you do. Across Australia, progressive workplaces are shifting the culture. They’re treating burnout not as an individual weakness but as a workplace issue with workplace solutions. If you’re looking for your next opportunity, here’s what to look for and a few organisations that we endorse that are setting the standard.
How Rheinmetall meets people where they are
In fast-paced, constantly evolving industries like defence and technology, proactive wellbeing support makes a meaningful difference. That’s why Rheinmetall prioritises real, person-first support.
“Support looks different for everyone,” says Sarah Mackenzie, General Manager of HR and Safety at Rheinmetall. “Sometimes it’s flexibility, sometimes it’s practical information, and sometimes it’s simply a safe space to talk.”
Rather than directing people through a single support channel, Rheinmetall makes a range of support options available, including an Employee Assistance Program and connections to external providers. The focus is on understanding each person’s unique needs and having the flexibility to provide support in a way that genuinely makes a difference for them.
Queensland Fire Department’s proactive approach to preventing burnout
At QFD, where roles come with purpose and real community impact, burnout prevention starts with how work is designed. “The best way to support workers experiencing burnout is to design work that doesn’t exacerbate it,” says Julie Pert, Executive Manager, Psychology and Support Services.
Their strategy is comprehensive. It includes clear role expectations, flexible work where possible, leave encouragement, and access to psychological support for employees and their families. Leaders are trained to manage psychosocial risks, and peer support officers offer additional guidance on the ground.
By embedding mental health awareness and practical safeguards into their everyday systems, QFD makes sure wellbeing isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of the job.
What supportive workplaces want you to know
Sarah from Rheinmetall puts it simply: “Don’t go it alone.” She explains, “There are always ways to reduce pressure quickly, and people who genuinely care about how you’re doing. It’s not just HR – support can come from anywhere in the business. Whether it’s having a conversation with your manager, accessing our EAP, or just feeling safe to say you’re not okay, that first step of reaching out can make all the difference.”
At QFD, the advice from leaders is grounded in lived experience. Executive Manager Julie Pert shares, “It’s important to set boundaries and not take work home with you. Learn to respectfully say no — think about what’s possible and what might have to give if you say yes to everything. Always take your leave; it’s there for a reason and we encourage managers to monitor this closely.”
Daniel Puselj, QFD’s Manager of Safety and Wellbeing, adds, “Recognising the signs early is key. Speak to someone — a colleague, your manager, or even a friend. You don’t need to suffer in silence. And make time for the things that bring you joy, whether it’s sport, cooking, or simply switching off. Those things matter.”
These aren’t just words. They reflect cultures where wellbeing is treated as essential, not optional.
What to look for in your next role
If you’ve experienced burnout, here are the green flags to seek out in your job search:
✔️ An employer who speaks openly about mental health
✔️ Leaders who are trained in wellbeing and psychosocial safety
✔️ Flexible work practices that are actually practiced
✔️ Encouragement (not guilt) around taking leave
✔️ Proactive support systems, not just crisis responses
Burnout can reshape your priorities, and that’s a good thing
It’s easy to feel like burnout is a personal failure. But often, it’s a sign that your workplace didn’t support you in the way you needed. Coming out the other side means learning to value care, rest, and sustainable work.
You deserve an employer who does the same.
So as you consider your next move, think beyond titles and salaries. Look for the signs of a workplace that will back you to succeed — with the support you need along the way.
Follow these WORK180 Endorsed Employers to find the support you need for the future you want.
You can now ‘Follow’ Endorsed Employers on WORK180 to stay up to date on new roles and how they’re improving support for women.
Click the Follow button on their profiles to stay in the know.
