Lifeline Celebrating 45 years and Beyond

Release date: 14 Mar 2008

This Sunday 16 March Lifeline will celebrate its 45th anniversary by remembering the journey that has taken place since its establishment in Sydney in 1963, while also looking to the future.

This Sunday 16 March Lifeline will celebrate its 45th anniversary by remembering the journey that has
taken place since its establishment in Sydney in 1963, while also looking to the future.

‘I am very proud of the tremendous journey Lifeline has taken over 45 years. I also feel privileged to
have been part of some very key milestones in recent years as we adapt our services, embrace new
technologies and work towards future sustainability,’ said Lifeline Australia CEO, Dawn O’Neil.

Lifeline was established in 1963 by the late Rev. Dr. Sir. Alan Walker in response to a call he
received from a distressed man who days later took his own life. Sir. Alan identified the need for a 24
hour service that could provide support to people with emotional problems and those who may be at
risk of suicide.

‘Lifeline’s 24 hour telephone counselling line – 13 11 14 – is still offered in the same spirit as Sir. Alan
intended all those years ago. Since then our services have expanded to meet the needs of the
community, but we are still doing what we have always done and that is to connect people with care.’

Lifeline relies on community support to ensure that the vital services that have been on offer for so
long, can continue to develop and be provided to those in need into the future.
‘Lifeline has become a highly visible and vital part of the Australian mental health landscape and the
community. We have many great supporters who help us in our work and are always looking to
connect with individuals and organisations that can support us into the future,’ said Ms. O’Neil.

The 42 Lifeline Centres around Australia will each be celebrating the 45th anniversary in their own
way. Some Centres will be hosting events and activities for their local communities.
Lifeline Australia has developed a dedicated anniversary page on the national website and will
feature an article outlining the technological change and growth that has taken place since 1963, as
well as plans for the future. Visit www.lifeline.org.au and follow the anniversary banner to find out
more.

Media Contact: Enita Hampton (ph: 0434378939)

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