Suicide prevention sector receives $47m boost

Lifeline Australia welcomes the Federal Government announcement of $47m to frontline suicide prevention services, while highlighting the need for leadership and accountability via a national suicide prevention strategy.

The national charity’s CEO Pete Shmigel said it is important to ensure that the 17 groups receiving funding as part of the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program are part of a coordinated approach to stopping suicide.

“We applaud this significant commitment to tackling the national suicide emergency, and acknowledge the strong support it will provide to many people struggling with life’s challenges,” Mr Shmigel said.

“We encourage all organisations to work closely with Primary Health Networks (PHNs), Governments, community organisations and support services such as Lifeline in the delivery of forthcoming services and programs.

“To this point, Lifeline believes a national suicide prevention strategy – with strong oversight from the Federal Health Minister – will help bring together the many diverse services, programs, research and experts across the country.

“So, whether it be the development of a broad communication campaign or a direct response to meet the needs of a particular community, we will be able to ensure greater collective impact and, ultimately, save more lives.”

Among the 17 groups receiving funding are R U OK?, Mates in Construction Australia, Suicide Prevention Australia, United Synergies, Mindframe and Orygen, with $3m going towards the Black Dog Institute’s LifeSpan trials and $1m dedicated to supporting the mental health needs of the health workforce.

For the full statement from Federal Minister for Health the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, click here.

For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp

INTERVIEWS: To request an interview, please contact [email protected] or 0408 407 376.