Suicide prevention trial for Wide Bay

Federal Member for Wide Bay, Llew O’Brien, has welcomed the inclusion of the region in the $46 million innovative suicide prevention trial, which is aimed at delivering better mental health services.

“I welcome this funding that will support new prevention programs to help stop the loss of lives and the grief and trauma caused by suicide.

Mr O’Brien said Gympie, Maryborough and the North Burnett region had high rates of suicide and self-harm when compared to the national average.

“The causes of suicide and the resources needed to prevent it vary from region to region, which is why a tailored response is needed. What works well in one community may not be so effective for another community.

“This program aims to bring together all levels of government, GPs and mental health service providers to identify issues and deliver a tailored response to a community or individual need,” Mr O’Brien said.