With suicide being the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44 years, a new cross-sectoral network has been formed in the Goulburn region, working together to lower suicide rates within the region and to ensure support options meet local people’s needs and are inclusive, compassionate, sustainable and accountable. 

Reducing and preventing suicide is complex and not exclusive to any one individual, service or sector, it’s a whole-of-community issue. The Network has formed to provide a sustainable and comprehensive approach to reducing the impact of suicide the Goulburn region. 

Jo Riley, Suicide Prevention Program Manager at COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, says “Every life lost is one too many and each suicide affects a large number of people, such as the person’s family, friends, children, partners and work colleagues."    

“Suicidal behaviour is extremely complex, with many risk factors across an individual’s lifespan interacting together; and the important issues for one person will be different from those for someone else. And that’s why a Network approach to supporting people is so beneficial – we have more opportunities to connect with people when they need it most,” Ms Riley said. 

Daniel Strickland is a local member of the Goulburn community and has been working with the Goulburn and Region Suicide Prevention Network since its inception. “It is so valuable that we work together to reduce suicide in our region. There are many valuable people, services, and organisations doing important work in suicide prevention. When we come together, our combined efforts are amplified,” Mr Strickland said. 

Network member and Standby Support After Suicide, Lived Experience Peer Worker, Miranda Robertson highlighted the importance of cross-sectoral approach to the work.  

“The value of the Network’s approach is that it serves to share the load of suicide prevention work in our region and allows people to focus on elements that align to their experience and expertise.” 

On Wednesday 11 December, the Network is coming together in Goulburn to launch a new local support resource and plan activity for the next 12 months.  

Ms Robertson was heavily involved in the development of the ‘Where to go for Support’ resource and is aware of the valuable role a resource such as this can play in moments of distress. 

“Moments of crisis can obviously be very difficult and full of stress for individuals and people caring for others. This resource makes the process of accessing help just that little bit easier. It is designed to be accessible to all and highlight key local services in one place.”   

The ‘Where to go for Support’ resource is available in poster and social media tile formats and can be downloaded here. This resource is available to be used by anyone – individual, service, or organisation.