Ravenswood gold mine achieves safety milestone

Queensland’s largest gold mine has proven its commitment to safety is truly worth its weight in gold by achieving a critical mental-wellbeing accreditation to support its workers.

 

The accreditation, granted to the Ravenswood gold mine under the MATES in Mining program, recognises sites that have fully embedded mental health and suicide prevention initiatives into daily operations. This ensures workers have access to peer-based support, trained connectors, and clear pathways to professional help.

MATES in Mining program is a workplace-based, peer-driven initiative adapted from a national program proven effective in reducing suicide in construction.

The program’s general manager Trent Bazley said the accreditation reflects strong leadership in addressing mental health challenges unique to the mining industry.

He noted that factors such as long shifts, FIFO and DIDO arrangements, and time away from family contribute to increased stress and isolation among workers.

“Accreditation shows Ravenswood Gold is serious about looking after its people, breaking down stigma, and building a culture where it is OK to reach out and ask for help,” Bazley said.

Research indicates that suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44, with construction and mining workers facing significantly higher risk compared to the general population. Around one in ten workers have reported suicidal thoughts in the past year, with vulnerable groups including apprentices, labourers, and FIFO and DIDO workers.

Bazley added that accreditation is more than a formality.

“Accreditation isn’t a tick box exercise, it means suicide prevention is built into the way a site operates every day,” he said.

“Ravenswood Gold is now part of a growing network of accredited mining sites across Australia proving that looking after mental health is a core part of a safe workplace.”

By achieving MATES accreditation, Ravenswood Gold is ensuring its workforce has access to suicide prevention training and a peer network equipped to recognise signs of distress and connect workers to timely support.

Ravenswood Gold general manager of operations Geoff Atkinson highlighted the program’s value to the company’s health and safety culture

“Looking after each other goes beyond hard hats and high-vis, mental health is just as important as physical safety. What I’ve loved seeing is how quickly our team has jumped on board; it’s clear everyone recognises the value of this program,” Atkinson said.

“Gaining accreditation isn’t just a badge for us – it’s proof of our commitment to building a workplace where people feel safe, supported and genuinely cared for.”

The MATES Helpline (1300 642 111) provides 24/7 suicide and mental health support services.