Behind every build are people working through physical pressure, long hours, and demanding environments. The industry recorded more than 31,385 work-related injury claims (ACC 2024), while growing awareness around mental health is encouraging businesses to take a broader view of workforce wellbeing as the industry represents around 9.5% of the workforce, it accounts for nearly 30% of workforce suicides (Grant Thornton/MATES in Construction). In this session, Scott Jacobs will explore: What lies at the heart of the cliched “She’ll Be Right” attitude and why no ones tackling the issue, why earlier intervention changes recovery outcomes, how businesses can better support physical and mental wellbeing, and practical ways to build more resilient, sustainable construction workplaces.
Scott Jacobs is Chief Customer Officer at Habit Health, where he leads corporate partnerships, client strategy and Māori partnerships to help organisations build healthier, more resilient workforces. With a background in corporate law, governance and business development, he brings a practical understanding of risk, leadership accountability and workforce performance. Scott works closely with senior leaders and boards to position workplace health as a strategic business advantage through early intervention and integrated care. Having experienced burnout first-hand, he advocates for practical, human-centred approaches to wellbeing. He is an active LinkedIn voice and regular speaker on workplace health, leadership and early intervention across New Zealand industries.