AUSTRALIA: $47m Suicide Prevention Boost to Save 3,000 Lives

June 09, 2017

News Type:  Weekly Spark, Weekly Spark News

The Northern Star

The Australian government has announced that it will increase federal funding for suicide prevention by $47 million. Under the National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program, funding will be provided to 17 organizations across the country, including Mates in Construction Australia, Suicide Prevention Australia, United Synergies, Mindframe, and Orygen. Activities supported under the program include treatment and support services for at-risk individuals and families, training for emergency personnel, and community-based supports. Funding will also be allocated to outreach efforts and research for the development, implementation, and evaluation of suicide prevention strategies. Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt said, “A series of communication programs will also be launched to provide tools and support to people and families most at risk, and investments in research will also be made to ensure these programs are providing the best support possible to meet the intended need.”

Spark Extra! Learn more about suicide prevention in Australia.