October 14th, 2024Reform aims to prevent suicides
Victoria’s state government is carrying out reform, including of the Victorian Suicide Prevention and Response Strategy 2024-2034, in a bid to prevent Victorians from taking their own lives.
The main aim of the strategy is to reduce suicide rates, and suicide prevention and response will also be elevated across government decision making.
The strategy is designed to address the impacts of suicide by creating a government and community-wide response.
“Suicide has a long-lasting and far-reaching effect on our communities,” said Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt.
“It’s why we listened and learned from those with lived experience to identify and respond to the factors that contribute to and protect against suicide,”
The strategy was a recommendation from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and is supported by an implementation plan.
It was developed with the support of clinicians and experts, and includes the input of people with lived experience.
If you or someone you know needs mental health support, visit beyondblue.org.au or call their 24/7 hotline on 1300 22 4636. You can also visit lifeline.org.au or call them on 13 11 14 and help for young people is available at kidshelpline.com.au or by calling them on 1800 55 1800.
