On the 3rd of September, the Minister for Health, Health and Wellbeing, Guy Barnett released an article highlighting the importance of the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Strategy 2023–2027  (released in December 2022) and the supporting three 18-month Implementation Plans.

”Most recent ABS data shows 87 Tasmanians died by suicide in 2022.
They each had people who loved and cared about them – people who now miss them and grieve their loss” – Guy Barnett

This acknowledgement is a step in the right direction and highlights the importance of a family and friend voice when it comes to shaping suicide prevention.

“Suicide prevention is a whole-of-government, whole-of-community issue, and it is up to us all to do what we can to support each other, be kind to each other, reach out to others in times of disruption and distress, encourage discussion, and help build hope for the future…

Suicide is a complex issue, and requires action across our entire community, service system, and government at all levels” Minister Barnett said.

Minister Guy Barnett is calling for input from all Tasmanians to address the needs of as many people in our community as possible and is keen to utilise the expertise of the broader community to achieve this.

It is important that friends and families have their say to help to refine the second Implementation Plan and shape the next steps that will be taken to improve suicide prevention in Tasmania.

The Department of Health will also be conducting lived experience workshops, seeking government agency submissions, and formal submissions to finalise the Implementation Plan ahead of its release later this year.

Information from this article was derived by the media release on 3rd September 2024 by Guy Barnett. 

Read the full media release: https://www.premier.tas.gov.au/latest-news/2024/september/help-shape-suicide-prevention-in-tasmania

For more information and to be part of the consultation process: Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Strategy 2023-2027 Implementation Plan Two Survey

 If this topic brings up strong feelings or personal experiences please reach out for help through A Tasmanian Lifeline 1800 98 44 34 or Lifeline’s crisis support line 13 11 14.