The elders’ report into preventing indigenous self-harm and youth suicide

This report was developed in response to an unprecedented increase in Indigenous youth self-harm and suicide that has occurred over the past 20 years across Australia’s Top End. It brings together the voices of elders and community leaders from across affected communities that wished to speak publicly about the causes and solutions needed to address this issue. This report is a transcription of interviews held with 31 elders and community representatives from over 17 communities. Each speaker was asked two primary questions: why are self-harm and suicide happening and what is the solution? Responses emphasized the contributing role of culture in both the problem and solutions.