Last week, MATES SA team members Matt and Patrick had the opportunity to attend the National Suicide Prevention Conference in Perth. The event brought together hundreds of people working across the suicide prevention space—sector leaders, community advocates, researchers, and frontline workers—with a shared goal of creating safer, more supportive communities.

The conference proved to be a valuable space for learning, reflection, and connection.

With hundreds of voices and perspectives in the room, it was a powerful opportunity to learn from national leaders, explore new evidence and innovation, foster relationships, and bring back insights to strengthen our work and collaboration across the construction and allied industries.

We’re especially grateful for the guidance and encouragement from our mentors at LivingWorks Australia. Their support reminded us just how critical the work of our trainers is—equipping workers across sites to recognise signs, start conversations, and keep each other safe.

The conference reinforced the importance of the work we do at MATES. It was a timely reminder that the training and support we deliver—developed and backed by organisations like LivingWorks—is meaningful and essential.

Our team also had the chance to meet with national MATES leaders and advocates, strengthening relationships across states and reaffirming our shared mission.