Ports Australia joins Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds as members

Ports Australia has joined industry-driven initiative Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds as members to continue the promotion of mental health and wellbeing of transport and logistics workers.

“Businesses simply cannot go without mental health and wellbeing planning for their staff and its importance has been proven ever more for workers in the transport and logistics industry,” said Mike Gallacher, CEO of Ports Australia.

“Ports Australia believes that with such responsibility and exposure to risk, the mental health of our sector’s workers should be of the utmost importance to ensure their wellbeing and the continuity of our supply chain,” he said.

Occupations in the transport and logistics sector come with long hours, workplace isolation, and constant pressure to meet deadlines, all increasing vulnerability to mental health issues.

In Healthy Heads’ National Mental Health and Wellbeing Roadmap, between 2008 and 2014, truck drivers had the highest number of suicides of any profession.

Related: Truck driver health problems revealed in review, sparks aid program

Ports Australia strongly recommends individuals across the transport and logistics industry to use the resources provided by Healthy Heads and to consider becoming a member (free for individuals).

The peak body industry said that the pandemic has challenged the industry more than ever to prioritise the mental health of staff given the unpredictability of working conditions and the potentially increased isolation they face.

On joining Healthy Heads in Trucks & Sheds, Gallacher said he is looked forward to sharing a strong relationship going forward.

“Ports Australia congratulates Healthy Heads on their work thus far promoting the mental health of supply chain workers and we look forward to joining their fight,” he said.

If you or someone you know needs support with mental health or well-being, you can contact the appropriate support service provider as shown below.

24/7 Mental Health Services:

Lifeline – 13 11 14
Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, call 000