New Lifeline funding will help save lives

Release date: 12 Oct 2006

Lifeline Australia welcomes $18 million over five years in funding, as part of the Australian Government’s $1.9 billion mental health funding packageto help provide the highest quality round the clock support and assistance to all Australians.

We are delighted to receive this substantial amount of money. It recognises the crucial work Lifeline does in providing emotional support and counselling to Australians, especially those with mental health concerns or who are at risk of suicide,” said Lifeline CEO, Dawn Smith.

Every day Lifeline receives 30 suicide-related calls, and each year in Australia more than 2000 people die by suicide – 20 percent more than the national road toll.

“This additional funding will help Lifeline save lives and to provide many Australians with the emotional support, information and hope they need to help their situation.

“Each year Lifeline responds to around 500,000 contacts and for some people, Lifeline is their and their families first support service to call.

“This funding will help Lifeline to improve the recruitment and training of our volunteers and staff to ensure they are better supported in their roles and receive up to date training, supervision and support.

“Lifeline is committed to further enhancing and expanding our services in the future so that Australians can receive emotional support in whatever form they need it - by emails, SMS as well as calls to our helpline service.

“Additional funding will enable us to update our IT system and referral database to improve our referral system to provide a high quality service.

“I would like to acknowledge and thank the Australian Government for their ongoing support of Lifeline, and look forward to working in partnership with them to deliver vital mental health services for all Australians,” said Ms Smith.

Media Contact: Shannon Anderson (ph: 0417 440 078)