Need Support Right Now?
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available 24/7.
Call or text TIACS: 0488 846 988
Free, confidential support
Available Australia-wide
If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
What Is TIACS?
TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter) is a free, confidential support service created specifically for blue-collar workers, including apprentices, tradies, and people working in mining, construction, and heavy industry.
TIACS exists because the challenges faced in these industries are often different to those in office-based roles, and many people don’t feel comfortable seeking help through traditional mental health services.
Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and you don’t need a referral.
Mental Health Support Built for Blue-Collar Workers
TIACS understands the realities of hands-on, high-pressure work environments. Their support team is trained to have real conversations, without judgement, clinical language, or pressure.
TIACS can help with:
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Financial stress and money worries
Relationship or family pressure
Work-related stress and burnout
You don’t need to be in crisis to reach out — sometimes it’s just about talking things through.
Mental Health Challenges in Mining & Heavy Industry
Working in mining and heavy industry can come with unique pressures that build up over time.
Common challenges include:
Long hours and physically demanding work
High-risk environments and safety pressure
Tight deadlines and shutdown work
Job insecurity tied to projects or contracts
FIFO & Remote Work Pressures
For FIFO and remote workers, challenges can also include:
Extended time away from family and friends
Difficulty switching off between swings
Isolation while on site or at camp
Strain on relationships at home
These pressures can affect apprentices just as much as experienced workers — especially early in their careers.
Who Can Contact TIACS?
TIACS support is available to:
Apprentices
Tradies
Mining and heavy-industry workers
Family members who are supporting someone doing it tough
All conversations are confidential, and nothing is shared with employers.
Other Helpful Mental Health Support Services
If you’re looking for additional support options, the following services may also help. All services listed below are confidential and free unless stated otherwise.
Lifeline
24/7 crisis support for anyone feeling overwhelmed or in distress.
13 11 14
Online chat available
Beyond Blue
Support for anxiety, depression, and mental health challenges.
1300 22 4636
Webchat available
Resources for individuals, families, and workplaces
Suicide Call Back Service
24/7 counselling for people at risk of suicide, carers, and those affected by suicide.
1300 659 467
Phone, video, and online chat options
MensLine Australia
Mental health and relationship support for men.
1300 78 99 78
Available 24/7
headspace
Mental health support for young people aged 12–25.
1800 650 890
Online chat and local centres available
13YARN
24/7 crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
13 92 76
Delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander counsellors
Rural Aid
Support for people in rural, regional, and remote communities.
1300 175 594
Counselling and wellbeing support
Open Arms
Mental health support for current and former ADF members and their families.
1800 011 046
24/7 support
Emergency Support
If you or someone else is in immediate danger:
Call 000
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you’re unsure which service is right for you, TIACS can help guide you to the most appropriate support option.
Call or text TIACS: 0488 846 988 (24/7)
Want to Support TIACS?
TIACS is a not-for-profit organisation that relies on community and industry support.
You can support TIACS by:
Making a donation
Getting your workplace involved
Supporting fundraising or awareness initiatives
Supporting TIACS helps ensure free, confidential support remains available to workers across Australia.
Remember
Reaching out doesn’t mean something is “wrong”, it just means you’re taking care of yourself.
If you need to talk:
📞 Call or text TIACS: 0488 846 988 (24/7)