Govt to spend $12m on suicide hot spots

THE government will spend $12 million over four years to install preventive measures to increase safety and reduce opportunity and risk at known suicide hotspots as part of its mental health reform package.

Mental Health Minister Mark Butler said the funding would pay for capital works to reduce the risk of suicide at places that provided means or opportunities for suicide, and he invited organisations to apply for funding to undertake the work.

“Things can be done to deter people from attempting suicide at these locations,” he said.

“That’s why the government is seeking proposals from organisations for capital works that restrict physical access to known hotspots. 

“Funding can go towards improvements such as fencing barriers, night lighting, and closed circuit television monitors at known hotspots.”

The funding forms part of the government’s $2.2 billion national mental health reform package and is being provided in addition to funding for Lifeline to establish dedicated phone counselling lines from already identified hotspots.

Two other suicide prevention resources, prepared under the auspices of the Australian Suicide Prevention Advisory Council and developed by the University of Melbourne, have also been released.

The resources, providing guidance to agencies involved in the management of suicide hotspots and to communities attempting to manage an actual or potential suicide cluster, are available at www.livingisforeveryone.com.au