MATES is an industry-led, research-backed charity dedicated to improving mental health and preventing suicide across the construction, mining, energy and manufacturing industries. Built by industry, for industry, MATES delivers practical, evidence-based programs that empower workers to recognise when a mate may be struggling, start meaningful conversations, and connect them to appropriate support.
Originally established in the construction industry, the MATES model has expanded to support other high-risk industries, including mining through MATES in Mining. Supported by employers, unions and industry partners, MATES works to reduce stigma, strengthen workplace culture and build networks of trained volunteers who create safer, more connected workplaces.
Through prevention, intervention and postvention, MATES provides practical training, workplace support, case management and a 24/7 helpline to ensure workers and their families know where to turn when they need support.
Our core products, services and areas of capability
MATES delivers a coordinated, evidence-based model of workplace mental health and suicide prevention centred on Prevention, Intervention and Postvention. Working alongside industry, we provide practical training, workplace programs and ongoing support that help build safer, healthier and more connected workplaces where workers know how to recognise when a mate may be struggling, confidently respond, and connect them to the right support.
Prevention – Building strong foundations Our prevention programs help organisations build the foundations to strengthen workplace culture, improve mental health literacy and reduce psychosocial risks before a crisis occurs. Services include:
- Blueprint for Better Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
- MATES Workplace Accreditation
- Life Skills Toolbox (LSTB)
- Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Toolbox
- Supervisor and leadership training
- Workplace mental health consultancy, audits and psychosocial risk assessments
Intervention – Equipping workers to act MATES training builds practical skills that strengthen a connected network of support across workplaces, empowering workers to recognise when someone may be struggling, start a conversation and connect them with appropriate help. Programs include:
- General Awareness Training (GAT)
- Connector Training
- Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
- Toolbox talks and workplace education sessions
Postvention – Supporting recovery and rebuilding hope When workplaces experience a critical incident or loss, MATES provides coordinated support to help individuals and teams stabilise, recover and access ongoing care. Our postvention services include:
- Critical incident response
- Respond training
- Individual case management
- Confidential 24/7 National Helpline
- Ongoing support for workers, families and workplaces
Together, these services provide organisations with a practical, research-backed framework that strengthens workplace culture, supports worker wellbeing and creates a visible network of safety across construction, mining and allied industries.
The sectors we work in and the types of projects we support
MATES partners with organisations across construction, civil infrastructure, commercial and residential building, engineering, mining, energy, manufacturing and allied industries. We support organisations of all sizes from apprentices, subcontractors and small businesses through to tier-one contractors, mining operations, major infrastructure projects, government agencies, industry associations and training organisations – helping build mentally healthier workplaces and stronger workplace cultures.
General contact details MATES Australia operates across Queensland, Northern Territory, New South Wales, South Australia and Western Australia.
Website: mates.org.au
24/7 National Helpline: 1300 642 111
General Enquiries: saenquiries@mates.org.au (or your relevant state office)