Suicide prevention must be a clear cornerstone of any wellbeing metrics guiding Federal Budget policy development, according to the nation’s peak suicide prevention body.
This follows an Australian Institute of Health and Welfare report released this week that confirms high levels of distress in the community.
Suicide Prevention Australia CEO Nieves Murray said, “Labor’s announcement today is a positive first step towards ensuring a compassionate, human face is put on economic decisions at all times. Budget policies must consider social and wellbeing impacts, not just economics; particularly with further interest rate rises and family budget pressures looming.
“It’s not about stopping tough budget and economic decisions being made, but rather minimising unintended harm to everyday Australians and providing increased safety nets where significant threats to suicide rates and distress were identified.
“Introducing a Suicide Prevention Act would be a crucial step towards a national, whole-of-government approach to keeping our community safe, just like Japan and South Australia. We will continue working with the new Albanese Labor Government to achieve this.
“As we emerge from the pandemic and compounding natural disasters, it is a critical time for suicide prevention in our community. A wellbeing budget coupled with a Suicide Prevention Act are two important steps the Government can take to help reduce suicide and save lives.
“Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy and the impact spreads across families, schools, workplace, sporting clubs and community groups. For those feeling distress, help is available and it’s important to reach out and seek support,” said Ms Murray.
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 CONTACTS:
Clare Kinsella 0427 689 689 or clarek@suicidepreventionaust.org
Amelia Banks 0410 591 134 or ameliab@suicidepreventionaust.org
Help to report about suicide safely is available online: Go to https://mindframe.org.au/
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 25 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 lived experience. We are focused on an integrated approach to suicide prevention encompassing mental health, social, economic and community factors. We believe that through collaborative effort and shared purpose, we can achieve our vision of a world without suicide.
