Metricon and Henley – have come together to support a cause that hits close to home for so many in our industry: mental health. With a shared belief in creating safer, more supportive environments, both companies have pledged a combined $50,000 donation to TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter), the organisation behind Blue-Collar Counselling, in support of a dedicated AFL’s Mental Health Round.
In an industry that prides itself on resilience and hard work, conversations around mental health are still too often pushed aside. This initiative is about changing that – by showing up, speaking out, and standing with the people who build the homes, towns and communities we all live in.
“There’s no blueprint for mental health struggles, and too many people suffer in silence. We want to use our platform to show that checking in, speaking up, and seeking help are acts of strength – not weakness.” Brad Duggan, Metricon CEO
“The stats are heartbreaking – and unacceptable,” added Antony Blackshaw, CEO of Henley. “We’re proud to join with Metricon and stand behind the AFL’s leadership in this space. Together, we want to start more conversations, shift old attitudes, and make mental health a real priority.”
Why this matters
We all know someone doing it tough - on site, behind the wheel, or just trying to make it through another long shift. In the building and construction world, mental health challenges are more common than many realise. Workers in our industry are more than twice as likely to die by suicide than those in other jobs. It’s a reality no one should accept.
Long hours, physical strain, and a culture of keeping it all in can take a toll. That’s why this partnership isn’t just about awareness – it’s about making real support easier to find, and reminding people they’re not alone.
$50,000 to support those who support us
Metricon and Henley’s donation to TIACS helps provide free, professional mental health support to Australia’s blue-collar workforce. No referral. No waiting list. No cost.
“TIACS is the only dedicated blue-collar counselling service in Australia. Our tradies, truckies and farmers are the backbone of this country, so we’re here for every blue-collar worker and their families. They can count on us to have their backs when they need it most – thanks to donations like this,” said Dan Allen, Chief of TIACS.
Founding Director and Treasurer Ed Ross added: “It’s encouraging to see companies like Henley and Metricon leading the way – uniting around a shared vision and investing in real change for the mental health and wellbeing of blue-collar industries. Our goal is to bring more organisations together to support this much-needed movement.”
TIACS exists because people in construction, trades and transport deserve support that understands them - delivered with empathy, not judgement.
“We’ve got thousands of people building Australia’s future. But it’s time we built a safer future for them too – one where mental health is part of every conversation.” Brad Duggan, Metricon CEO
It’s about people, not just policies
This movement isn’t about headlines or corporate initiatives. It’s about the people who show up every day to do hard, often invisible work - and making sure they feel seen, supported, and valued.
Backing an AFL’s Mental Health Round is just one way Metricon and Henley are helping shift the conversation. Because when mental health becomes part of everyday conversations, we make it easier for people to reach out, to listen, and to heal.
If you or someone you know needs support, call or text TIACS on 0488 846 988. It’s free, it’s confidential, and it’s there when you need it.
