As the year ends and another begins, it can bring pressure, deadlines, and unexpected stress or triggers. For builders and tradies – this time of year can feel overwhelming.
TIACS is not your typical mental health service. It’s founded by ex-chippies Dan Allen and Ed Ross (pictured above), and funded by industry, for industry, to provide tradies, truckies, farmers, blue-collar workers and their loved ones access to qualified mental health professionals via phone or text – with no waitlists, no GP referral, and no cost.
As one such industry supporter and TIACS Alliance Partner, Dahlsens promotes this free and confidential counselling service to their builder and tradie customers.
According to Dahlsens General Manager, Mark Cooper, “The building industry is under more pressure than ever due to a sustained slowdown, rising material costs and constant regulatory changes that builders need to keep up with – just to name a few factors that contribute to burnout and mental health issues.”
“As many well know, building is a male dominated industry that is traditionally not known for opening up emotionally or seeking mental health support – this can be a recipe for disaster,” continued Mark.
“TIACS is an excellent option for those who are struggling and could benefit from getting professional help anonymously. Dahlsens is proud to support TIACS and we encourage builders, tradies and apprentices to take advantage of this service when they need it,” said Mark.
Builder-friendly counselling matters now more than ever
In just the past quarter (July – Sept 2025), TIACS has:
- Supported over 1,000 tradies and blue-collar workers, 99% of whom were from the industry it’s designed for
- Delivered a 21% increase in counselling sessions, showing stronger engagement and ongoing support
- Reached people where they live and work, with 62% of users from regional or remote Australia
- Saw a rise in younger and older clients reaching out, including apprentices and men aged 56–65
- Most clients reach out due to relationship stress, burnout, grief, and financial pressure
Who uses TIACS?
The top three industries are:
- Construction
- Transport and logistics
- Agriculture and farming
In the building sector, carpenters remained the biggest group seeking help, with electricians up 33% and apprentice involvement on the rise.
“You made it simple by helping me connect the dots.”
That’s what one TIACS client told his counsellor before wrapping up sessions. Like many others, he found the service life-changing:
“I didn’t know TIACS from a bar of soap, but I’m so excited to tell everyone I meet about it… It’s been lovely every time we speak. Beyond fantastic.”
— 50s, male, NSW, construction industry
The feedback speaks for itself – clients say they feel more in control, less overwhelmed, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. Most importantly, they feel heard.
Free and confidential mental health support for builders
TIACS is designed to meet people where they are and understands the building industry. It’s phone-based, informal, jargon-free, and easy to access. Most importantly it’s anonymous if that’s what you prefer and confidential.
No referrals
Whether you’re a builder, a tradie or apprentice, the service is there when you need it. If you’re not ready to talk, you can start with a simple text.
And if you’re doing okay right now, that’s great – but maybe you know someone who’s not. Share the number. Pass it on.
TIACS is available Monday to Friday, 8am–10pm AEST
Call or text TIACS on 0488 846 988.
