With construction workers among the highest risk for suicide in Australia, a new Tasmanian partnership is aiming to bring mental health support straight to worksites.
Wilson Homes has signed on as a major sponsor of SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY in a partnership aimed at bringing conversations about mental wellbeing directly into workplaces across the state.
The deal comes against a sobering backdrop.
Around 190 construction workers across Australia die by suicide each year, roughly one life lost every second day.
The SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY team will work alongside Wilson Homes employees across all areas of the business, creating regular opportunities for connection and open discussion around mental health.
The two organisations will also develop tailored resources aimed at supporting staff and encouraging early help-seeking.
Mitch McPherson, founder of SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY, said bringing conversations into everyday workplace environments is a critical step in improving outcomes.
“As someone who worked in the trade industry, I know that the construction industry is built on resilience and hard work, but sometimes that can make it harder for people to speak up when they’re struggling,” he said.
“Suicide rates among construction workers are roughly double those of other employed men, and workers are far more likely to die by suicide than from a workplace accident.”
“Partnerships like this help us bring conversations directly into workplaces where they can make the biggest difference.”
As part of the initiative, a new “Making a Difference” Stay ChatTY Award will be introduced within Wilson Homes to recognise employees who advocate for positive change and contribute to a supportive workplace culture.
Stay ChatTY stickers will also feature across Wilson Homes vehicles, carrying visible reminders throughout Tasmanian communities to check in with ourselves and others.
Wilson Homes CEO Tim Ribbons said expanding the definition of workplace safety is an important step for the industry.
“Safety in construction has traditionally focused on physical risks, but we know mental health is just as important,” he said.
“Partnering with Stay ChatTY allows us to take a proactive approach by creating opportunities for connection and supporting our people before challenges become crises.”
Wilson Homes will also support community initiatives including Shorts Day, helping extend mental health awareness beyond the workplace.
