The HIA Charitable Foundation has made a generous $150,000 donation to advance Beyond Blue's work in suicide prevention and support across the country.
The Foundation Chairman Ron Dwyer said raising awareness of suicide and mental health conditions was vital, particularly in the male-dominated residential building industry, where one in four people can be affected.
“Our objective is to raise awareness and encourage and promote open communication around mental health issues, and provide initiatives and resources to support workers across the residential building industry,” Mr Dwyer said.
“Beyond Blue's mental health and suicide prevention programs and initiatives are an ideal fit.
“We are pleased to extend our contribution to Beyond Blue to over half a million dollars with this latest $150,000 donation, and look forward to continuing our partnership into the future.”
In December, Mr Dwyer and Housing Industry Association Deputy Managing Director, Graham Wolfe presented the donation to Beyond Blue Deputy CEO Susan Anderson and General Manager Workplace Partnerships and Engagement, Patrice O’Brien.
Mr Dwyer and Mr Wolfe were also briefed by Beyond Blue suicide prevention staff about new and ongoing initiatives such as the Way Back Support Service and BeyondNow suicide prevention app.
Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman thanked the HIA Charitable Foundation for its generosity and for being a mental health leader within the Australian building industry.
“Beyond Blue is committed to breaking through social barriers that block open and safe discussion of suicide and suicide prevention,” Ms Harman said.
“We know men are more than twice as likely to die by suicide, but are reluctant to seek help if they are having a tough time.
“Male-dominated workplaces – such as the residential construction industry – have to change their cultures around discussion of mental health and HIA is to be congratulated for stepping up to lead that change.”
