The Morrison Government has announced it is investing $2.53 million in two research projects to improve support for Australians experiencing emotional distress or a suicidal crisis.
The Suicide Prevention Research Fund supports research into suicide prevention and is managed by Suicide Prevention Australia, the national peak body for the suicide prevention sector.
The two research projects were reportedly selected through the Suicide Prevention Research Fund’s competitive Targeted Research Grants program.
According to a statement released by the Office of the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, the Australian National University will receive $1.35 million for their project, Co-creating safe space, which will examine the effectiveness of ‘safe space’ models in the ACT and NSW as alternatives to presenting to a hospital Emergency Department.
The University of Western Australia will receive $1.28 million for their project, Expand WA, which will seek to improve aftercare services among young people aged 10 to 17 who present to hospital with self-harm or suicidal crisis.
It will also determine the effectiveness of a brief collaborative psychological intervention called a Therapeutic Assessment, including a version tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“The Government is committed to reducing the rate of suicides in Australia to zero and to supporting initiatives and services that help prevent suicide,” says Minister Hunt, adding that the research projects recognise the vulnerability of people at the time of suicidal or emotional distress, and will contribute to more effective responses.
“This is why we’re investing $289.1 million in the 2021-22 Budget into suicide prevention, recognising the devastating impact suicide continues to have on Australian families and communities.”
As part of the Morrison Government’s record $2.3 billion investment in the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan, the Government has reportedly committed $158.6 million for the provision of universal aftercare, to be delivered in partnership with states and territories.
Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, David Coleman, says the Government’s investment in the Research Fund has supported Australian research into suicide prevention and rapid translation of the findings into more effective services for individuals, families and communities
“We know that a suicide attempt is the most significant risk factor for further suicidal behaviour and attempts. That’s why it’s important to understand the best ways we can support people in these situations,” says Assistant Minister Coleman.
“We are deeply committed to supporting initiatives and services that help us better understand and prevent suicide, which is currently the leading cause of death among people aged 15 to 49.”
Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through headspace (headspace.org.au/eheadspace/), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), Beyond Blue (1300 224 636), Lifeline (13 11 14), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health (headtohealth.gov.au).
If you are concerned about suicide, living with someone who is considering suicide, or bereaved by suicide, the Suicide Call Back Service is available at 1300 659 467 or on their website.
