The construction industry has the highest rate of suicide of any industry in the country and building workers across Australia will be taking time out this week to check in with each other’s mental health and fly the flag for suicide prevention.
MATES “fly the Flag” events around Australia on 13 and 14 September aim to raise awareness, foster solidarity, and provide crucial support for workers who may be experiencing mental health challenges. Over 100,000 construction workers will take part in events this week at over 900 worksites nationally.
MATES is an industry led non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting better mental health and suicide prevention within the construction industry and other blue-collar sectors.
Fly the Flag is a symbolic event that invites construction sites, offices, and workplaces across the nation to unite and display the MATES flag prominently. The event serves as a powerful visual reminder of the industry’s commitment to supporting its workforce and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
MATES NSW Chief Executive Brad Parker said: “We hope Fly the Flag meetings around Australia this week will encourage workplace conversations about mental health. We have a problem with mental health and suicide in our industry and we need to talk about it.”
“Our society perceives blue collar workers as strong and steadfast, but the reality is sometimes different to the perception. Everyone has a responsibility to check in with their workmates from time to time and as an industry, we need to do better in addressing poor mental health, loneliness and the type of anxiety that if swept under the carpet, can be debilitating,” said Parker.
During Fly the Flag events this week, organisations are encouraged to engage their workers in various activities focused on mental health and wellbeing. These activities may include toolbox talks, workshops, awareness sessions, and distributing resources that promote mental wellness. MATES provides a comprehensive toolkit bag that includes a flag to fly, posters and stickers.
“MATES invites all construction industry stakeholders, including contractors, subcontractors, unions, industry associations, and workers, to join together at events and make a powerful statement of unity and support. By participating, organisations contribute to the positive change needed to create a mentally healthy workplace culture, save lives, and build stronger, more resilient communities within the industry sector,” said Parker.
