Construction workers remain at higher risk of suicide than other Australians, but new research shows the gap is narrowing as mental health initiatives gain momentum across the industry.
The University of Melbourne’s Suicide in the Construction Industry, Volume 7 report, led by Associate Professor Tania King and commissioned by MATES in Construction, confirms that targeted intervention programs are making measurable progress in reducing suicide rates among construction personnel.
The longitudinal study, which builds on more than a decade of data, found that while construction workers still face an elevated risk of suicide compared to the general population, that disparity has declined significantly in recent years.
Researchers attribute this positive shift to the increasing reach of industry-driven mental health and peer-support initiatives, particularly those that focus on early intervention, workplace culture, and stigma reduction.
Associate Professor King said the findings highlight how community-based models can address structural and cultural contributors to suicide in male-dominated environments.
Founded in 2008, MATES in Construction has become a cornerstone of the sector’s approach to mental health.
The program delivers on-site training, suicide prevention education, and connects workers with support networks through peer connectors and case management services.
MATES operates nationally and has engaged hundreds of thousands of construction, mining, and energy workers since its inception.
MATES in Construction CEO Chris Lockwood said the latest findings reinforce the value of industry ownership in suicide prevention.
The study also notes that construction’s strong improvements contrast with stagnation in some other high-risk sectors.
However, researchers caution that ongoing vigilance is essential, as economic pressures, job insecurity, and long working hours continue to pose mental health risks for many workers.
King said that embedding sustainability into mental health strategies will be critical to maintaining progress.
According to the research, increased industry collaboration with mental health professionals, strengthened referral pathways, and leadership engagement have all contributed to improved outcomes.
The report recommends expanding preventive training programs, integrating wellbeing frameworks into tendering and safety obligations, and enhancing data collection to more accurately measure trends over time.
As construction activity remains strong across Australia, the sector’s leaders are being urged to keep mental health on the agenda alongside physical safety.
For many, the message is clear: building a safer industry means not only preventing injuries on site but also protecting the wellbeing of those who work there.
