The Australian Government is continuing to back Australian workers, delivering an additional $6.9 million over 2 years to strengthen mental health and suicide prevention support in high-risk industries.
The funding will support MATES in Construction who are looking to expand their presence in NSW and follows the extension of the National Suicide Prevention Leadership Support Program, which invests in programs and organisations working to reduce suicide and suicidal distress across Australia.
MATES delivers suicide prevention training, peer support, counselling and case management services to workers in industries with increased suicide risk, including construction, mining, energy and manufacturing.
These sectors are predominantly male workforces, with men making up around 85% to 90% of the construction industry. The suicide rate among male construction workers is estimated to be almost double that of other employed Australian men.
Since 2022, MATES has delivered suicide awareness training to more than 69,000 workers across high-risk industries.
More than 8,000 workers have gone on to become on-site peer support 'Connectors'.
This workforce-led approach is helping identify people who may be struggling, encouraging conversations about mental health and connecting workers with support before a crisis occurs.
The investment in MATES forms part of the Albanese Labor Government's broader commitment to improving mental health and preventing suicide.
Medicare Mental Health Centres are a core part of that commitment and have now delivered more than 570,000 free appointments, providing Australians with immediate access to support close to home.
The Government has also launched Medicare Mental Health Check-In, Australia's first national free digital mental health service, helping more people access support wherever they live.
If you or someone you know would benefit from more information visit medicarementalhealth.gov.au or call 1800 595 212.
Quotes attributable to Minister Rishworth:
"Every worker deserves to come home safe from work, and that includes being safe from mental health challenges that can too often go unseen.
"Programs like MATES are making a real difference by breaking down stigma, encouraging workers to look out for one another, and ensuring support is available when it is needed most.
"That's why the Albanese Labor Government is continuing to support programs like this, helping workers in high-risk industries access early intervention, peer support and professional care.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"The MATES program is saving lives. It's as simple as that.
"We know that too many workers in industries like construction, mining and manufacturing are struggling in silence.
"This investment builds on the Albanese Labor Government's steadfast commitment to delivering mental health care, close to home, for all Australians.
Quotes attributable to Special Envoy Repacholi:
"I've worked in mining and on the tools. I know blokes will talk about just about anything before they talk about how they're feeling.
"MATES helps change that by giving workers the skills and confidence to spot when a mate is struggling, start a conversation and help them get support.
"You don't have to have all the answers to ask a mate if he's alright. But you do need to know where to turn when the answer is no.
"This funding means MATES can keep doing that vital work. Every worker deserves to get home safely, and that includes looking after their mental health."
Quotes attributable to MATES NSW CEO Brad Parker:
"This funding will allow MATES to reach more workers across New South Wales, equipping them with the skills to recognise when a mate is struggling and connect them with life-saving support.
"By bringing suicide prevention directly onto worksites, we can build a culture where workers look out for one another, and no one has to face a crisis alone."
See photos of site visit with MATES.
