ACON is New South Wales leading LGBTQ+ health organisation and is a proud member organisation of Suicide Prevention Australia. We’re here to help reduce distress and support those in the LGBTQ+ communities that have lived and living experiences of suicide. We are committed to addressing the disproportionately high rates of suicidality in LGBTQ+ populations, driven by factors such as stigma, discrimination, and systemic barriers to care.
Through our dedicated Suicide Prevention and Aftercare Service, ACON provides free, confidential, and short-term care coordination and peer work for LGBTQ+ individuals aged 18 and over who have recently attempted suicide or are at high risk. The service offers non-judgemental support and helps connect people to mental health care, social services, and community resources. Available during business hours via phone or email, it ensures timely and compassionate assistance when it’s needed most.
ACON also offers a range of other support services and in the 2024–2025 period, supported 1,291 individuals across 12,933 occasions of service, across suicide prevention and aftercare, sexual, domestic and family violence, substance support and more. This highlights the critical role for LGBTQ+ community-led services in the service landscape – services that are delivered by and for LGBTQ+ communities area affirming and deeply inclusive. As this need continues to rise, ACON remains committed to expanding our reach and impact throughout NSW.
Beyond direct support, ACON plays a vital role in broader suicide prevention efforts through advocacy, research, and community education. Our digital platform, HERE.org.au, offers a wealth of resources, personal stories, and pathways to support, helping to reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking behaviours amongst LGBTQ+ people.
This year marks ACON’s 40th anniversary, with a range of community events celebrating four decades of services and advocacy. These milestone celebrations demonstrate our longstanding commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ communities.
How to Connect:
• For referrals or more information, visit acon.org.au/support-services/community-care or contact ACON’s intake officer at (02) 9206 2000 or intake@acon.org.au
• Learn more about our anniversary events and register at acon40.org.au/events-page
• Check out and promote our resources and lived experience stories here.org.au/resources/
Together, we can strive towards ensuring that every LGBTQ+ person in NSW has access to lifesaving, inclusive, and affirming support when they need it most.
