The Talking Trowel
Mental health can affect any one of us, at any time. At Melchor, we are committed to creating a safe, respectful and supportive environment where people feel comfortable to speak openly and honestly about mental health and wellbeing.
One conversation may not change the world, but it can change the world of one person.
To help foster meaningful conversations, we launched The Talking Trowel initiative. The initiative is driven by a simple belief: conversations save lives. Whether it’s a quick check‑in, a deeper conversation, or knowing where to go for help, The Talking Trowel encourages people to look out for their mates and speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
Help is always available
If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, support is always available. There are a range of services and organisations that can provide help, depending on your circumstances. If you're unsure where to start, explore the options below to find the support that’s right for you.
MATES in Construction
MATES in Construction offers essential support for workers and their families across the construction, mining, energy and manufacturing industries. The MATES Helpline (1300 642 111) is a free, confidential 24/7 service, staffed by qualified psychologists and counsellors who understand the unique pressures of these industries.
Whether you’re experiencing personal challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or concerned about a mate or loved one, MATES provides immediate support and practical guidance. Ongoing assistance is also available through dedicated case management where required, ensuring individuals receive tailored care.
In an emergency, always call 000 for immediate help.
For more information about MATES, click here.
Alcohol and Drug Support Line
The Mental Health Commission of Western Australia operates the Alcohol and Drug Support Line (ADSL), providing confidential support for anyone seeking help with their own, or someone else’s, alcohol and/or other drug use.
The service is available 24 hours a day to callers across Western Australia:
Metro callers: (08) 9442 5000
Country callers: 1800 198 024 (toll free)
ADSL offers a supportive, non-judgmental space and can help you explore available treatment options and services within your local community.
Please note that the Alcohol and Drug Support Line is not an emergency service. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
For more information about ADSL, click here.
Beyond Blue Helpline and Webchat
At Melchor, we recognise that mental health is just as important as physical safety, with one in two Australians experiencing mental health challenges at some point in their lives.
Beyond Blue plays a vital role in supporting Australians through these challenges, offering trusted information, practical resources and free, confidential counselling delivered by trained professionals.
Support is available 24/7 via phone (1300 224 636) or online chat, ensuring help is always within reach when it’s needed most.
For more information on the Beyond Blue Helpline and Webchat, please click here.
Employee Assistance Program
Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through PeopleSense is a confidential, third-party counselling service available to employees and their immediate family members, offering support for both personal and work‑related challenges that may impact wellbeing.
The program provides free, confidential counselling, professional guidance, and practical tools to help manage stress, mental health concerns, and difficult situations. To book an appointment, please call 1300 307 912.
To learn more about PeopleSense, click here.
Gambling Help Online
Gambling Help Online is funded through a partnership between the Australian Government and all state and territory governments.
It provides free, confidential online support for anyone affected by gambling and is available 24/7 across Australia.
To learn more about the support and services available, click here.
Alternatively, you can call the free Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 to speak with a trained gambling counsellor. The service is available 24/7 from anywhere in Australia and is professional, confidential and free.
Lifeline
At Melchor, we recognise the importance of accessible, immediate mental health support, and Lifeline plays a critical role in providing 24/7 crisis assistance to Australians in need.
As a national charity, Lifeline offers free, confidential support for anyone experiencing emotional distress, with trained crisis supporters available at any time via phone (13 11 14), text (0477 13 11 14) or online chat, ensuring no one has to face their toughest moments alone.
To learn more about Lifeline, click here.
13YARN
13YARN is the first national crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who may be feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope. It offers a confidential, one-on-one yarning opportunity with a Lifeline-trained Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter, available 24/7.
13YARN provides a culturally safe space to yarn openly and without judgement about your needs, worries, or concerns.
If you, or someone you know, need support, call 13 92 76 anytime to speak with a Crisis Supporter. This is your story – no shame, no judgement, just a safe place to yarn.