Jockey Assist

Racing And Wagering WA And The West Australian Jockey Association Provide Support To WA Jockeys And Apprentice Jockeys Through The Jockey Assistance Program – Called Jockey Assist.

Jockey Assist has been developed to continue the professional approach to the sport and highlight the image of jockeys as highly-skilled athletes.

The program provides support in a number of different areas. The program consultant has expertise, qualifications in the allied health and sporting fields.

Who can access Jockey Assist?

Jockey Assist is a free, confidential counselling service for all Western Australia Jockeys and Apprentice Jockeys. The program provides an initial counselling support service and if further support is required, a referral will be made to an appropriate professional (doctor, physiotherapist, dietitian, financial advisor etc.).

What can be discussed with the psychologist (examples below)?

• Riding confidence/form
• Career transition
• Anger Management Bereavement/Grief Conflict resolution Drug & Alcohol use/abuse
• Family issues
• Stress
• Mental health Career Counselling
• Suicide
• Performance issues
• Injury and Rehabilitation/Anxiety Financial stress
• Depression
• Behavioural difficulties
• Workplace issues

Is the program confidential?

This service is TOTALLY confidential between WA Jockeys and Apprentice Jockeys and the consultant.

How to access the program?

To access the program please contact Kim Mercer on 0409 455 103.

Alternatively, you may contact Craig Staples from the West Australian Jockey Association on c.staples@wajockeys.org

Further information 

For a range of excellent information sheets, visit the Australian Psychological Society website.

For information on depression visit the Beyond Blue website or call 1300 224 636.

24 hour emergency HELP numbers:

LIFELINE 13 11 14

SANE 1800 18 SANE (7263)

SUICIDE PREVENTION 1300 651 251