I M P R O V I N G . . .
- John Evans
- Mar 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Mental Health Crisis: Suicide Kills More Australian Construction Workers Than Jobsite Accidents.
Mental Health in the Australian Construction Industry
Australia’s construction and property industries are the backbone of economic growth, but behind the prosperity lies a mental health crisis. Construction workers face extreme stress, long hours, job insecurity, and financial pressures, leading to an alarming suicide rate that is up to 19 times higher than other workplace fatalities. This issue demands urgent industry-wide reform.
This bar graph compares the Suicide Rate (26.6 per 100,000) against the workplace Fatality Rate (1.4 per 100,000) in the Australian Construction Industry. The stark difference highlights the urgent need for mental health interventions and support in the sector.
Suicide Rate in Construction: Scientific Reports – The age-standardised suicide rate among Australian male construction workers was 26.6 per 100,000 persons between 2001 and 2019. (Nature.com)
Workplace Fatality Rate: Safe Work Australia 2023 Report – The average fatality rate across all industries was 1.4 per 100,000 workers over the past five years. (Safe Work Australia)
As a leader in the commercial property sector, CommProp Group recognises the essential connection between construction and property, and the responsibility to foster a healthier working environment.
With services spanning Commercial, Retail, and Industrial sectors, CommProp Group engages with all construction professionals, ensuring that mental health considerations are prioritised in project management and workplace culture. By integrating best practices in safety, support, and industry-wide advocacy, CommProp Group is committed to improving mental health outcomes within the built environment.
A recent University study in Australia highlighted the role of workplace culture, noting that long working hours, toxic masculinity, and stigma around mental health prevent workers from seeking help. Additionally, physically demanding labour, exposure to hazardous environments, and the transient nature of employment add further psychological strain.
MATES in Construction has emerged as a leading advocate, providing on-site peer support and training programs designed to address mental health and suicide prevention across the Australian Industry. Their research indicates that social connections and education can significantly reduce mental health risks and improve overall well-being.
Similarly, global research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognises Construction as a high-risk sector for mental health issues. In the USA, a Construction worker is 5 times more likely to die by suicide than from all the other causes combined. Their findings align with Australian research, showing that targeted mental health programs and workplace interventions can significantly lower suicide rates.
According to The B1M, an English you-tuber that discusses all topics within the construction, building and architectural industries, recently highlighted the mental health crisis in England, and continually advocates for the health and safety of its workers across the UK.
Watch these for B1M's insight.
"Addressing mental health in construction requires systemic change - reducing stigma, promoting job security, and implementing structured support programs. By learning from both Australian and International research, our Industry can take meaningful steps to protect workers’ well-being in an effort to reduce the devastating suicide rates” said John Evans, Managing Director of CommProp Group.
Australian Charities for Suicide Prevention in Construction
MATES in Construction – A leading organisation providing mental health training, peer support, and suicide prevention initiatives specifically for the Construction Industry.
Beyond Blue – Offers 24/7 support, resources, and programs aimed at improving mental health and reducing stigma across various industries, including Construction.
Lifeline Australia – Provides crisis support and suicide prevention services, including a 24/7 helpline available to construction workers and the broader community.
OzHelp Foundation – Focuses on workplace mental health and suicide prevention programs tailored to high-risk industries, including Construction and Trades.
Black Dog Institute – Conducts research and delivers evidence-based programs on workplace mental health, including initiatives relevant to Construction Workers.
These organisations offer crucial resources, support, and intervention programs aimed at addressing the mental health crisis in the Australian Construction Industry.
Let’s work together to improve mental health within the Australian Construction Industry.
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