This course is a delivered through a blend of informative presentations, group discussions and interactive activities, and covers the following content:

• What “mental health” means in everyday language
• The mental health continuum and how it applies
• Risk and protective factors in the construction industry
• Industry-specific stigma and barriers
• Signs and symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression and suicidality
• Simple, effective tools for managing stress
• Skills for supporting mates at work, including listening and referrals

A Certificate of Completion will be awarded by St John WA upon successful completion of course requirements.

WHO IS IT FOR?

This Mental Health Awareness course is designed for young people working within the building and construction industry, with a particular focus on those in the early stages of their careers.

This course is highly relevant for:

• Construction apprentices, particularly first- and second-year apprentices who are entering the workforce for the first time and are facing new challenges related to site culture, work demands, isolation or job insecurity.
• Pre-apprenticeship students or school-based trainees who may be unfamiliar with the mental health risks and support networks available in the industry.
• Site supervisors and leading hands who are responsible for overseeing apprentices and junior workers, and who play a crucial role in creating mentally healthy workplaces.
• Tradespeople and mentors – especially those who informally support or guide apprentices. These roles will benefit from understanding how to recognise early signs of distress and initiate appropriate conversations and/or referrals.

Master Builders WA highly recommends that all employers in the building and construction industry enrol their first year apprentices into the Mental Health Awareness for Construction Apprentices course as part of their employee onboarding procedure.

MBAWA member discounts and private classes are available.

WHY FACE-TO-FACE?

Mental health is a complex and sensitive subject, especially in industries where stigma remains prevalent. A face-to-face, classroom-style setting allows for immediate emotional support, real-time clarification and careful facilitation of difficult conversations, ensuring the psychological safety of all attendees.

Not only that, but being in a room with peers normalises mental health conversations and reduces stigma. Apprentices benefit from hearing shared experiences and building connections with others facing similar challenges, which is critical in reinforcing the message that they are not alone.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

Nil.

To access CTF funding, you must demonstrate primary and substantial involvement in construction projects within the state. This typically involves being directly employed in on-site construction, installation, or fabrication activities.