Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has pledged to look out for his mates, with construction workers more than twice as likely to suicide than other people in Australia.
More than 190 construction workers die by suicide each year and over 40 of them are from Queensland.
Mates in Construction have collaborated with RUOK to raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention.
As a registered builder Mr Bennett said he’s all too familiar with the problem and stigma in the construction industry.
“It’s about looking out for our mates, asking if they’re ok, and listening to them,” said Mr Bennett.
“We construction workers are unfortunately notorious for just sucking it up and staying silent.
“But that’s dangerous, this ‘she’ll be right’ attitude has to change.
“Construction workers in Australia are six times more likely to die by suicide than through a workplace accident.
“I’m pleading with builders, traidies, everyone, to take the pledge with their mates to look out for one at other.”
East Coast Apprenticeships Branch Manager Mark Vincent said they are big supporters of talking about mental health in the construction industry.
“It’s hard, I understand it’s hard to talk,” Mr Vincent said.
“It’s a male dominated industry and us guys aren’t really good at talking.
“But we have to understand there are people, like field officers and mentors, who are there to talk to and who will listen.
“I just want to ask everyone to remember to ask their mates if they’re ok, and basically just listen to what they have to say.
“I think the biggest thing is listening and supporting each other.”
13.09.18