Suicide Prevention Australia wholeheartedly welcomes the introduction of a Suicide Prevention Bill to the New South Wales Parliament as a critical and timely step toward a coordinated and holistic approach to suicide prevention.
The Bill was introduced to Parliament yesterday by the Honourable Rose Jackson, Minister for Mental Health who has been instrumental in pushing for the creation of this legislation. It proposes a suite of much-needed reforms including a state-wide suicide prevention plan, agency-specific plans, a legislated Suicide Prevention Council, a suicide death register enshrined in legislation, and stronger mechanisms for data sharing between agencies.
Suicide Prevention Australia Acting CEO, Christopher Stone, said the legislation marks a significant milestone and shows leadership in the face of growing urgency.
“This is a hugely positive step in the right direction for suicide prevention in New South Wales. It’s encouraging to see a whole-of-government approach reflected in this Bill — it’s exactly the kind of systemic change we’ve been advocating for.
“The New South Wales Government is showing national leadership by stepping up with legislation that puts suicide prevention at the centre of government decision-making. This is the bold, coordinated approach we need to tackle a crisis that touches every corner of the community.
“The proposed legislation includes many of the vital elements needed to drive meaningful change — including better coordination across government agencies, improved data sharing, and a formalised Suicide Prevention Council to provide oversight,” said Mr Stone.
Importantly, New South Wales now joins South Australia, which became the first state to introduce suicide prevention legislation in 2021. These state-level commitments are vital to embedding suicide prevention across portfolios like health, housing, education, and justice — and should serve as a model for all jurisdictions across Australia.
The introduction of the Bill comes at a critical time. Recent data from the New South Wales suicide register shows that the state has recorded its highest number of suspected suicide deaths in the first quarter of the year since records began.
“This data is deeply concerning. It reinforces the need to accelerate reform and put the necessary structures in place to ensure every agency is contributing to suicide prevention — not just the health system,” said Mr Stone.
“We commend the New South Wales Government for taking this step and urge all members of parliament to support the Bill. Lives are at stake, and this is a moment to act with unity and urgency,” said Mr Stone.
Suicide Prevention Australia has long advocated for suicide prevention legislation in every jurisdiction to ensure all parts of government are working together, and that suicide prevention is embedded into housing, education, justice, and beyond.
“We stand ready to support the New South Wales Government to get this Bill passed and implemented — and we will continue to advocate for other governments to follow suit,” said Mr Stone.
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 alexp@suicidepreventionaust.org
About Suicide Prevention Australia
Suicide Prevention Australia is the national peak body and we’ve been providing support for Australia’s suicide prevention sector for more than 30 years. We support and advocate for our members to drive continual improvement in suicide prevention policy, programs and services. Our reach is broad, including member organisations, governments, businesses, researchers, practitioners and those with
