As part of the True Sport Mental Health and Wellbeing Initiative, SportWest has successfully delivered its second sold-out Mental Health First Aid Course, facilitated by Happiness Co, in response to growing demand for mental health education and support across Western Australia’s sporting community.
Proudly supported by the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport and held at Sport HQ in Floreat on 12–13 November 2025, the two-day course brought together staff from a diverse range of organisations, including Gymnastics WA, Volleyball WA, WA Football, and the City of Swan. These participants—representing both state sporting associations and local government—are now equipped with nationally recognised accreditation and the practical skills needed to support mental wellbeing in their communities.
The course focused on empowering attendees to:
- Recognise signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in adults
- Respond appropriately to mental health crises
- Understand pathways to professional help and ongoing support
By embedding accredited Mental Health First Aiders within sporting organisations, SportWest is helping to build a network of trained individuals who can provide early intervention, peer support, and guidance during times of mental distress. This initiative is a critical step toward creating safer, more inclusive environments where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
The presence of trained staff across SSAs means athletes, coaches, volunteers, and administrators are more likely to receive timely support, reducing stigma and promoting a culture of care. The inclusion of local government staff, such as those from the City of Swan, also highlights the broader community impact of this training, extending its reach beyond sport into community wellbeing.
SportWest’s continued partnership with Happiness Co ensures that participants receive expert facilitation and evidence-based training. The success of this second course underscores the sector’s commitment to mental health literacy and the appetite for ongoing professional development in this space.
As mental health continues to be a priority across the sporting landscape, SportWest remains dedicated to supporting its members through education, advocacy, and collaboration. Plans are already underway to explore future training opportunities to meet the growing demand and further strengthen the sector’s capacity to support mental wellbeing.
SportWest extends its sincere thanks to Happiness Co for their expert facilitation, and to all attendees for their commitment to creating mentally healthy sporting environments across Western Australia.
