Master Builders Victoria (MBV) has urged members to seek mental health support when needed.  

From speaking directly with MBV members, we know that many are feeling pressure and continuing to deal with substantial business-related stress and anxiety. It is evident that this is taking a toll on the mental health of many in our sector, and these issues can flow through to teams and families.

MBV again highlighted this critical issue in Sunday's Herald Sun.

Read here.

The article revealed some concerning statistics.

  • On average, a building or construction worker takes their own life every two days.
  • Trades make up more than 30 per cent of the workforce in Australia, with more than 90 per cent of trades being men.
  • Statistics reveal that men in the building and construction industry are 53 per cent more likely to die by suicide than other employed males in the country.
  • Between 2001 and 2018, there were 3621 suicides by male building and construction workers in Australia, including 850 in Victoria (second only to NSW with 980).
  • Construction workers are six times more likely to die from suicide than work accidents.
  • Young workers are twice more likely to take their own lives than other young men.
  • While one-in-five Australian workers are likely to be experiencing a mental health issue at any one time – that figure rises to one-in-four among building and construction workers.
  • Male construction workers under 25 years old are more than twice as likely to take their own lives as the general population.

A massive shout out to MBV member Paul Leesment from Supreme Green Landscaping for being brave enough to be different and taking the time with his team to discuss the benefits of maintaining physical and mental wellbeing.

At the request of Mr Leesment, MBV arranged for HALT (Hope Assistance Local Tradies) to visit the team last week and discuss the importance of maintaining their mental health.

Thanks to HALT, Supreme Green Landscaping team members left the event with increased knowledge, confidence, and skills in the following key areas:

  • Myths surrounding mental health issues and suicide.
  • How to be a good listener and have a "tough conversation" with yourself or your mate.
  • How to access local and national support services.
  • Ways to support your wellbeing.
  • Reducing the shame of asking for help and understanding the risk factors.

The article also focused on the pivotal role of Incolink's Bluehats program in helping address mental health issues.