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Brand MP King hosts discussion for suicide prevention in Perth’s south

Gabrielle JefferyWeekend Kwinana Courier

EARLIER this week there was an encouraging development for those affected by suicide.

Brand MP Madeleine King held a discussion on October 9 about suicide prevention in preparation for the long overdue and much welcomed suicide trial site for those in the Perth South region.

Mental Health service providers attended the round-table discussion along with Shadow Assistant Minister of Mental Health Senator Deborah O’Neill.

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Representatives of Perth South’s mental health sector gave their perspectives on suicide prevention policy.

“We acknowledge the important work they do and are continuously inspired by their efforts to address suicide prevention,” Ms King said.

“In Western Australia, there were 371 deaths by suicide in 2016.

“Sadly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are approximately twice as likely to die by suicide than non-indigenous Australians.

“It is extremely encouraging that Perth South has been identified as a suicide prevention trial site, with a particular focus on the prevention of suicide among young people.”

In 2016, suicide accounted for over one-third of deaths of young people in Western Australia.

Ms King said Labor is also pleased the Turnbull Government adopted their 2016 election commitment to roll out a total of 12 suicide prevention trial sites.

For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Other services include Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978.

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