- Published:
- Thursday 28 July 2016
The Andrews Labor Government has revealed its plan to halve the rate of suicide over the next 10 years.
Premier Daniel Andrews today joined Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley and Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke to release the Labor Government’s Suicide Prevention Framework, which is backed by a $27 million investment in two key suicide prevention initiatives.
The Labor Government is investing in local community approaches which help support communities implement strategies such as workforce training, school-based support and mental health literacy programs within six local government areas:
- Mornington Peninsula/Frankston
- Brimbank/Melton
- Whittlesea
- Mildura
- Latrobe Valley
- Ballarat
Support will also be provided for intensive community based support trials for people who have attempted suicide in six locations throughout Victoria:
- Peninsula Health
- Alfred Health
- St Vincent’s Hospital
- Barwon Health, Geelong
- Maroondah Hospital
- Wangaratta Hospital
The areas for the trial locations are based of the prevalence of suicide in Victoria, population and community demographics, as well as local capacity.
More information on the trials can be found at www.mentalhealthplan.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“In 2014 alone, we lost 646 Victorians to suicide – that’s twice as many lives as our road toll.”
“For every suicide, there are many more people deeply affected - family, friends, carers, colleagues and communities. This is something we urgently need to change.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
“These investments are a key component of our 10 Year Mental Health Plan. We will continue to work to reduce the stigma around mental health and gives patients and their families the support they need.”
“We will work hard to ensure we reach the target of halving the suicide rate by 2025, by investing in local solutions and system-wide reform.”
Quote attributable to Member for Frankston, Paul Edbrooke
“Mental health has been a key issue in our community for some time. This investment will ensure we get the best support to those who need it most and most importantly, save lives.”