MTAQ launches custom automotive work shirt to drive mental health awareness

MTA Queensland says it is excited to announce the launch of a new custom automotive work shirt in partnership with TradeMutt, the popular workwear brand famous for its eye-catching designs that promote mental health among the blue-collar community.
Created by tradies, for tradies, this automotive-themed work shirt stays true to TradeMutt’s signature style.
It features a bold and colourful design, showcasing a variety of tyre patterns covering motorcycles through to heavy vehicle, all set against a backdrop of winding roads (and potholes) that capture the true Aussie spirit.
More than just a stylish addition to your wardrobe, every shirt purchased provides support and awareness for TIACS (This Is A Conversation Starter), a vital mental health initiative offering free counselling for tradies, truckies, farmers, and other blue-collar workers.
Key features of the shirt include:
• Y.N.W.A on the pocket: a reminder that “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
• “This is a Conversation Starter” on the back yoke, highlighting the shirt’s purpose; to start a conversation.
• “Don’t Shut the Bonnet on It” slogan on the back yoke: a clever automotive play on words to promote mental health awareness.
• A QR code under the pocket flap, linked to TIACS free mental health counselling services.
In an effort to make this an industry-wide initiative, MTA Queensland encourages all automotive stakeholders to get involved and participate in Funky Shirt Fridays.
Created by TradeMutt to change the culture surrounding mental health, Funky Shirt Fridays have become a growing trend in workplaces across Australia.
“We are proud to partner with TradeMutt to create a product that benefits the wider automotive community,” MTA Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Rod Camm, said.
“We want every person across the industry to get involved and wear these outrageously funky shirts every Friday to encourage meaningful conversations.
“Mental health is a vital issue, particularly in the blue-collar sector, and through this collaboration, we aim to foster a culture of openness and support.”
This initiative not only fosters a sense of community but also reinforces the important message of mental health awareness.
“At TradeMutt, we believe that workwear can do more than just provide protection; it can also spark meaningful conversations about mental health,” TradeMutt Co-Founder, Ed Ross, said.
“This partnership with MTA Queensland allows us to extend our reach and ensure that every
shirt sold contributes to crucial mental health services for workers who often feel they have no one to turn to.
“TradeMutt was created to start conversations about mental health. By wearing a TradeMutt shirt to work, the invisible issue of mental health becomes impossible to ignore. So, get involved, grab a shirt, and share the message.”
The new automotive work shirt is available for purchase through MTA Queensland’s online shop, making it easy for automotive professionals to support a worthy cause while upgrading their work attire.
For those seeking support, TIACS is available Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 10.00pm AEST. Simply text or call 0488 846 988 to connect with someone who understands.

For more information, visit www.mtaq.com.au