The draft Western Australian Suicide Prevention Action Plan 2021-2025 has been released for public feedback.
The draft plan will provide a blueprint for a government and whole-of-community approach to suicide prevention in Western Australia.
It has been developed to recognise the complexities and diversity of Western Australia and also captures local voices and needs.
The draft action plan includes 50 suggested actions, which were informed by State-wide consultation to help reduce the incidence of suicide.
More than 900 people across Western Australia were consulted through yarning, focus groups, workshops and an online survey.
Actions identified by the community include:
- increasing access to services for families and communities bereaved by suicide;
- implementing consistent assessment and early intervention frameworks and services for suicidal ideation and behaviour; and
- developing crisis and support plans and protocols for high-risk populations with their local communities.
The draft action plan will build on the State Government's commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing, and addresses recommendations of several reports, including the WA State Coroner's Inquest into the deaths of 13 children and young people in the Kimberley and the 2016 Message Stick Inquiry into Aboriginal youth suicide in remote areas.
In Western Australia, more than one person a day dies as a result of suicide and it remains the leading cause of death for Western Australians aged between 15 and 44 years.
The public feedback period runs until October 22, 2019.
Visit https://www.mhc.wa.gov.au to download a copy of the draft Action Plan and to provide comment through the questionnaire.
For 24/7 free counselling and support call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, or Lifeline in a crisis situation on 13 11 14.
As stated by Mental Health Minister Roger Cook:
"Suicide is a devastating tragedy that not only hurts those close to a person when they take their own life, but it has repercussions that are felt throughout a local community and our society more broadly.
"We need to draw on the critical knowledge and strength of local communities and service providers as we try to prevent these tragedies.
"This draft preventative action plan draws on the expertise of communities from across Western Australia and highlights the need to prioritise capability and resources to respond to those most vulnerable.
"By doing so we can work towards improving the health and wellbeing of local communities and the broader community of Western Australia."
