- Childhood trauma is linked to 41% of all suicide attempts among Australians aged 16 to 85.
- More than three in five people report experiencing at least one Adverse Childhood Experience.
- Peak body calls for coordinated national action and more education for teachers and schools.
Suicide Prevention Australia has today released a landmark report, Adverse Childhood Experiences and Suicide, revealing the significant and lasting impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on suicide risk, and calling for a coordinated national approach to address the critical issue.
The report highlights that 41% of all suicide attempts among Australians aged 16 to 85 are attributable to childhood maltreatment, as well as a range of other research findings. These findings show the urgent need to strengthen prevention, early identification, and support for children and families experiencing adversity to protect the lives of some of Australia’s most vulnerable.
More than one in four Australians (28.5%) report experiencing sexual abuse before 18 years of age, and almost two in three (60%) adults say they have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience (ACEs) such as neglect, abuse, or household dysfunction during their childhood. By age 17, one in four young people have experienced the death by suicide of student at school, and one in five know someone personally who has died by suicide.
The Adverse Childhood Experiences and Suicide report provides a comprehensive framework for governments, policymakers, and services. It sets out achievable, evidence-backed steps that, when linked together, have the potential to change lives, families, and communities for generations to come.
Suicide Prevention Australia CEO, Nieves Murray, said the findings underscore the vital importance of addressing trauma early and consistently throughout a person’s life.
“This report reinforces what we’ve long known: childhood experiences shape lifelong wellbeing.
“Countless inquiries and Royal Commissions have highlighted the need to act on ACEs — but too many recommendations are still sitting on the shelf.
“When such a significant proportion of suicide attempts can be traced to maltreatment in childhood, it becomes clear that trauma prevention and early intervention must sit at the heart of Australia’s suicide prevention efforts.
“In recent months, Australia has also seen confronting media coverage of serious incidents occurring in childcare settings. As these stories lift the lid on the devastating experiences some children are being exposed to, they reinforce an uncomfortable truth: these issues are happening now, in our communities, and their impacts can last a lifetime.
“There has never been a more important moment to strengthen prevention, oversight and support for children and families — and to ensure that we are addressing harm early, before it becomes entrenched. With the right support and coordinated action, we can reduce distress, strengthen resilience and prevent suicide,” said Ms Murray.
The report provides a comprehensive framework for government action, setting out eight guiding principles and more than 30 clear recommendations. Among the key priorities are:
- A National ACEs prevention strategy: mapping and integrating relevant policies and national strategies across sectors and governments.
- Trauma informed education: ensuring teachers and schools are equipped to identify and support children affected by trauma.
- Early screening and support: ensuring children most at risk are assessed by experts and provided with therapeutic interventions where needed.
Ms Murray said the recommendations offer a practical pathway for governments and services to work together more effectively.
“There is already important work underway through initiatives like Safe and Supported: The National Framework for Protecting Australia’s Children. What’s needed now is a unified strategy that brings these efforts together.
“Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences is not only about protecting children. It’s one of the most powerful ways we can prevent distress and suicide across a person’s lifespan.
“We have strong evidence, clear recommendations and sector-wide commitment but we also need coordinated national action to turn this into long-term solutions.
“Strong childhoods build strong lives, strong families, and strong communities. Tackling ACEs is the foundation for a safer, healthier Australia,” said Ms Murray.
The Adverse Childhood Experiences and Suicide report, including all eight guiding principles and 30+ recommendations is available for download at www.suicidepreventionaust.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Adverse-Childhood-Experiences-and-Suicide-report_FINAL.pdf
ENDS
To get help 24/7, phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, phone 000 for emergency services.
Help to report about suicide safely is available online: Go to https://mindframe.org.au/
Media enquiries:
Amelia Hew 0410 591 134 or ameliah@suicidepreventionaust.org
Alex Pursehouse 0423 196 136 or alexp@suicidepreventionaust.org
