Wagga Wagga City Council is partnering with Lockhart Shire Council to protect our communities from suicide by running the safeTALK training program in November.
LivingWorks safeTALK is an interactive, engaging workshop that gives people the skills and confidence they need to see and respond to the warning signs of suicide.
On any given day, people in our communities may be experiencing suicidal thoughts. Usually there will be warning signs, but those signs can easily go unnoticed.
LivingWorks safeTALK training program can help compassionate community members notice and act when something is wrong.
Wagga Wagga City Council Community Development Coordinator Alex Osgood says every conversation can make a difference.
"Most of us want to help when someone is distressed but we aren't always sure what to say or do.
"People who are having suicidal thoughts sometimes communicate their distress in quite subtle ways. Learning to recognise those signs and connect that person to services can literally save lives."
More than 120,000 people take one of the LivingWorks safeTALK courses every year, building a 'network of safety' that helps save lives around the world.
Alex Osgood said the safeTALK training is something anyone can do.
"You don't need any prior experience, or a special background in social services. You just need to be a compassionate person and be willing to give up a few hours of your time," Alex Osgood said.
"The training is free for anyone in our community aged 18 or over, so jump online and register for one of the sessions."
safeTALK training sessions are running in Lockhart and Wagga Wagga in November 2026 with Wellways Murrumbidgee in attendance.
