MATES in Construction is looking for teams to join its 2025 activity challenge to raise money for mental health
MATES in Construction has announced the return of the MATES Big Lap in 2025.
Running for the month of April, this year’s theme, “Move for your MATES”, calls on Australians to come together, get active and raise vital awareness for suicide prevention and mental health across the construction, mining, energy and manufacturing sectors.
MATES in Construction says that physical activity and movement are powerful tools for mental health and overall wellbeing. Regular exercise helps reduce stress, boost mood, and foster a sense of connection and purpose – key factors in maintaining mental resilience.
The inaugural MATES Big Lap in 2023 saw participants cover over 80,000km – the equivalent of five laps around Australia – raising more than $120,000 through generous donations.
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This year the aim is to complete nine big laps around Australia, representing the average number of lives lost to suicide every day in Australia.
In 2025, teams are at the heart of the event. Anyone participating as part of a team of five or more will receive a bonus free water bottle and hydration packs from TruWorkwear/Body Armour to help stay hydrated while moving for a cause that matters.
“MATES Big Lap 2025 is more than just a fitness challenge; it’s a movement,” MATES Australia executive director Michael Harper says.
“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.”
The sobering reality is that male construction workers are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to other Australian men. Even more concerning, they are eight times more likely to die by suicide than from a workplace accident. These statistics highlight the urgent need for targeted mental health support and suicide prevention initiatives within the construction industry.
MATES Big Lap runs from 01 April to 30 April 2025. Register now at: www.matesbiglap.org.au