The construction industry in Western Australia is both diverse and unique, employing around 10% of the state's population. Despite its size and significance, the industry's workforce is often subject to assumptions and stereotypes about their behaviours and mental health. Most research on these issues has focused on interstate data, leaving the specific experiences of WA construction workers underrepresented.
Until now, the local industry has lacked robust data on the mental health challenges faced by workers both on site and in their personal lives. If the construction sector is serious about improving workforce wellbeing, it must first understand the realities its workers face. To address this gap, MATES in Construction WA partnered with the University of Western Australia in 2024 to deliver critical insights into the mental health of WA’s construction workforce.
The largest survey of its kind in Australia, with 1,845 participants, captured a broad spectrum of experiences from workers across metropolitan and remote locations, spanning all genders, ages, occupations, and levels of experience. The survey not only investigated pressing mental health concerns like suicidal thoughts and behaviours, depression, anxiety, burnout, and substance use, but also uncovered how various factors can either exacerbate or alleviate these issues. By exploring aspects such as workplace culture, social support, job demands, and financial pressures, the survey aimed to uncover insights into the complex dynamics that impact mental health outcomes. Understanding these factors is essential for developing targeted interventions to promote well-being and reduce suicide risk among workers.
The presentation will also include a lived experience perspective from a former construction worker, offering personal insights into identifying colleagues facing mental health difficulties and how to support them in times of need. Qualitative responses from the survey will also be presented alongside quantitative results, so that the voices of workers within the industry can be heard.