MATES Collie Transition

MATES Collie Transition

The MATES Collie Transition initiative supports mining workers, workplaces and communities as the Collie region navigates the shift away from coal operations. Delivered by MATES in Mining, it focuses on strengthening mental health, wellbeing and suicide prevention during a period of significant social and economic change. Consistent with the broader MATES approach, the initiative promotes connection, early support and practical assistance for workers and their families.

The initiative works closely with employers, unions and community stakeholders to build awareness of mental health challenges and encourage supportive workplace cultures. Through training, education and engagement activities, it helps workers recognise signs of distress, start supportive conversations and connect colleagues with appropriate support services. The program encourages help-seeking and help-offering behaviours, creating environments where people can discuss mental health openly and without stigma.

MATES Collie Transition aims to reduce psychological distress and strengthen resilience across the workforce and wider community. By building workplace connections, improving mental health literacy and providing pathways to support, the initiative helps people navigate uncertainty and change with greater confidence. Through its focus on community, connection and practical support, the program contributes to safer, healthier and more connected workplaces and communities throughout the Collie region.

MATES in Mining

MATES in Mining is an industry-based mental health and suicide prevention organisation supporting workers across Australia’s mining sector. As part of the broader MATES model, it raises awareness, builds capability, provides support and promotes evidence-based approaches that help prevent suicide and improve mental health outcomes in mining workplaces. Guided by a community-development approach, MATES in Mining encourages workers to look out for one another and make support a normal part of everyday work life.

The organisation delivers a comprehensive program combining workplace training, peer support, case management and access to professional assistance. Its training pathway includes General Awareness Training, Connector training and Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, equipping workers to recognise when a colleague may be struggling, start supportive conversations and connect people with appropriate help. MATES in Mining also provides a 24/7 support line, case management services and on-site engagement through dedicated field staff who understand the realities of the mining industry.

MATES in Mining focuses on creating mentally healthy workplaces through connection, early intervention and practical support. The organisation complements its workplace programs with digital resources, FIFO-specific support tools, research partnerships and site accreditation processes that help organisations demonstrate their commitment to mental health and suicide prevention. Through its proactive and evidence-informed approach, MATES in Mining helps build safer, more supportive and more resilient mining communities.