Cassy O'Connor MP | Greens Leader
The Tasmanian Greens warmly welcome the Liberal Government's Suicide Prevention Strategy.
An investment of $3M to boost mental health services and a more holistic approach to identifying and supporting at-risk Tasmanians are a very good start. Every cent invested in evidence-based, compassionate suicide prevention strategies is a cent well spent.
Suicide is a deeply emotional and complex issue that takes a terrible toll on individuals, families and our community. We congratulate the Liberals for taking this serious issue to heart and putting resources behind it.
The devastation caused by the suicide of a loved one to families and friends cannot be overstated. We encourage Minister Ferguson to continue his positive work in this area and persuade his federal colleagues to follow his lead and increase funding to Lifeline and other suicide prevention programs.
We would also support Minister Rockliff in encouraging more of our schools to adopt the Safe Schools program, which is critical to reducing bullying and suicide in our young LGBTI community.
We will continue to work with government and across parties to create a Tasmania which is kind and supportive, a place where the vulnerable know there is always help to be found and where every citizen is valued.
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance or support, contact these numbers 24 hours a day/ seven days a week:
Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or www.kidshelpline.com.au
MensLine Australia on 1300 78 99 78 or www.mensline.org.au
To find out more information and to chat online, contact:
headspace 1800 650 850 www.headspace.org.au
beyondblue 1300 22 4636 www.beyondblue.org.au