Three Australian outlets publish a similar opinion-style piece arguing that Australians’ higher rates of calling in sick compared with other countries can have wider benefits. Brisbane Times, Sydney Morning Herald and The Age all frame the topic as more than simple absenteeism, suggesting that taking time off when ill can support individual wellbeing and recovery rather than pushing through illness. The articles also contend that this behaviour can reduce the spread of sickness in workplaces and among the wider community, potentially limiting disruption and harm. In addition, they argue that appropriate sick leave use can strengthen workplace functioning by encouraging healthier work practices, improving staff sustainability, and supporting a culture where employees feel able to report illness without stigma. Across the coverage, the central message is that sick leave can be associated with positive outcomes for both workers and organisations when used for legitimate reasons. All three pieces emphasise the broader effects on health, community welfare and workplace dynamics, while maintaining that the comparison is relative to other countries’ sick leave behaviours.