A tree in Gowrie has been painted blue as part of the Australia-wide Blue Tree Project to mark World Mental Health Day.
This is the fourth tree in Canberra to be painted blue with funding from the ACT Government to encourage the community to start conversations about mental health.
Minister for Mental Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said blue trees can be a visual symbol of hope and generate important discussions with friends and loved ones.
"If someone walks or drives past and doesn't know why a tree has been painted blue, finding the answer can prompt a discussion about mental health and wellbeing that might not have happened otherwise," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"In 2023, 37 people tragically lost their lives to suicide in the ACT. Each death from suicide has an impact across the community – in families, friendship groups and workplaces – often affecting dozens, if not hundreds of people.
"Openly discussing mental health is an important first step in reducing this number and addressing the stigma that still exists in our society."
Minister Stephen-Smith said seeing a blue tree was a good reminder to check in on family members or friends to see how they're going.
"People can be going through a hard time for all sorts of reasons, and human connection is important even when things are going well. Supporting a loved one can be as simple as just listening and chatting to them about what they are going through, helping to find resources or organising an appointment," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"Seeing a blue tree is also a good opportunity for self-reflection and encourages people to think about their own mental health."
The ACT Government continues to invest in mental health services to support the community with $9.4 million committed in the Territory 2025-26 Budget over four years to strengthen community-based mental health programs, especially for young people and their families.
The ACT Government also recently launched Minds Together, a free online program to support families, friends and carers of those experiencing suicidal distress and committed $1.5 million to Thirrili, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisation, to help deliver culturally appropriate care and support in suicide prevention, intervention, postvention and aftercare support for ACT's First Nations communities.
"It is important for Canberrans to know that there are services and support for people who are struggling with their mental health, including culturally safe options," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
