Sometimes, a simple idea can spark something extraordinary. For Brisbane tradies Ed Ross and Dan Allen, that idea was a bold, colourful work shirt - a design that would stand out on any job site and get people talking. But the story behind TradeMutt goes much deeper.
It all began with a personal tragedy. After losing a close friend to suicide, Ed and Dan knew that something had to change. They saw how hard it could be for tradies to talk about their struggles and how mental health was too often a silent battle. Determined to make a difference, they launched TradeMutt in 2018 - a workwear brand with a mission far beyond just selling shirts.
Work shirts that start conversations
TradeMutt shirts are impossible to ignore. Covered in bold, colourful patterns, they’re designed to be “conversation starters” on site - helping tradies check in with each other, break down stigma, and get talking about mental health. But Ed and Dan didn’t stop there. They wanted to create a direct way for tradies to access support when they needed it most.
To make sure those conversations didn’t end on site, Ed and Dan launched TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter) - a free, confidential mental health support service for tradies, truckies, blue-collar workers, and their families. No need for a GP referral, no paperwork - just direct access to qualified counsellors via phone, text, or chat.
TIACS provides up to 10 free counselling sessions for anyone who needs to talk, whether they’re feeling overwhelmed, facing a tough time, or just need someone to listen. Since launching, TIACS has helped thousands of Australians, offering support that’s easy to access and stigma-free.
Our commitment to mental health
We believe that looking after our tradies means more than just providing safe worksites - it means supporting their mental health too. That’s why we proudly support TradeMutt and TIACS, helping to fund this essential service and ensuring our tradies have access to free, confidential support when they need it.
Every time one of our tradies pulls on a TradeMutt shirt, it’s a reminder that they’re part of a team that cares. It’s a symbol of support, solidarity, and the simple message that it’s okay to talk.
If you or someone you know needs to talk, TIACS is here:
Call or text 0488 846 988 | Mon–Fri 8am–10pm AEST
Or visit tiacs.org to learn more.