The Queensland Government is providing $1 million to help MATES in Construction expand its suicide prevention program to rural and remote areas in the state.
State Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said the funding over the next 12 months will help the organisation expand its services across the state, while the Queensland Government explores options to provide long-term funding certainty.
“Unfortunately, the suicide rate of young workers in the industry is two to three-times higher than the general community and the average age of suicide among construction workers in Queensland is just 36 years,” Ms. Grace said.
“This additional funding will help MATES to continue to spread the message to rural and remote areas and also to put more emphasis on engaging with young workers at risk.
“We are committed to suicide prevention. The impact of suicide is devastating affecting families, work colleagues, communities, service providers and first responders.”
In its 10th year, MATES in Construction targets mental health and suicide prevention at a local level, primarily on construction sites.
“MATES in Construction uses on-site training to encourage workers to get help and early intervention through volunteer connectors who are trained in suicide intervention,” Ms. Grace said.
“This is supported with case management, a national 24-hour telephone helpline, and online counselling.”
For support contact:
MATES in Construction National Helpline: 1300 642 111
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Related stories:
- Lifesaving organisation MATES in Construction achieves milestone
- The elephant on the worksite
- “Big Blue” excavator to raise awareness for mental illness
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