MATES in Construction
Also known as: MATES
24/7 helpline and peer-led suicide prevention for construction workers and small construction-business owners. Recognised by WHO as global best practice.
About this service
MATES in Construction is a peer-led, evidence-based suicide prevention and mental health support program for the construction industry. Its 24/7 helpline is staffed by people who understand the industry's specific stresses — subcontract chains, payment delays, fixed-price contracts, high-pressure deadlines, and the cultural pattern of not asking for help. The World Health Organization recognised MATES as global best practice in 2021. State branches operate in QLD, NSW, WA, SA, and NT. For a construction business owner under pressure, this is the first call before any general mental health route.
When to use
You're in construction or trades and the pressure is getting to you. A worker on your site is struggling. You're bereaved by suicide in the industry.
When not to use
Outside the construction industry — use Lifeline or NewAccess. For financial pressure specifically, also call SBDH.
Who they help
Anyone in the construction industry — owners, subcontractors, employees, apprentices, retired tradies, and their families.
Who they don't help
Outside the construction industry, route to Lifeline or NewAccess for Small Business Owners. MATES is industry-specific by design.
Strengths
24/7. Peer-led — the person on the other end of the phone gets it. Onsite case managers in many regions. Evidence-based and WHO-recognised.
Limitations
Construction-only. Not a financial counselling service.
Source authority
mates.org.auOften used alongside
Lifeline Australia
24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention. Phone, text, or chat. Free, confidential.
Free
Beyond Blue NewAccess for Small Business Owners
Free six-session mental health coaching for small business owners under stress. Coaches have small business backgrounds. No GP referral required.
Small Business Debt Helpline
Free, confidential, specialist financial counselling for sole traders and small business owners — tax debt, BAS, supplier pressure, insolvency options.
We do not refer to commercial debt-relief operators.
Every service we point you to is free or low-cost, government-funded or not-for-profit, and independent of creditors. If a paid operator is offering to negotiate your ATO debt or run a Part IX agreement for a fee, talk to the Small Business Debt Helpline first — 1800 413 828, free.
TEKVA provides information, not financial counselling or legal advice. Phone numbers, URLs, and operating hours were checked on 26 May 2026.