The MATES Big Lap is set to return later this year as MATES in Construction looks to raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health.
MATES in Construction supports initiatives for workers in the construction, mining, energy and manufacturing sectors. The organisation’s annual fundraiser, which began in 2023, has grown yearly since it was established, with participants covering more than 80,000km and $120,000 through donations.
MATES in Construction is aiming to make the 2025 event the biggest yet, with a target distance of the equivalent of nine laps around Australia. For comparison, the 2023 event delivered the equivalent of five laps around Australia.
The target of nine laps around Australia represents the average number of lives lost to suicide in Australia every day. The MATES Big Lap will run from April 1 to April 30.
MATES Australia executive director Michael Harper said the event hoped to help break the mental health stigma.
“MATES Big Lap 2025 is more than just a fitness challenge; it’s a movement,” he said.
“Every step, every lap, and every dollar raised helps break the stigma around mental health and brings us closer to preventing suicide in our industries. We’re stronger together, and every participant plays a role in creating change.”
According to recent data, construction workers are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to other Australian men. Construction workers are eight times more likely to die by suicide than from a workplace accident.
- Contact the MATES Helpline on 1300 642 111 for mental health support services.
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