New report released by Suicide Prevention Australia provides snapshot of suicide prevention reform in Australia

A new report released by Suicide Prevention Australia provides details of suicide prevention activity and outcomes in Australia.

Consultation that informed the State of the States in Suicide Prevention report occurred over two phases during July to September 2022, and October to December 2022.

Published findings highlight the impact of socioeconomic status on suicide risk, with age-standardised suicide rates highest for those living in low socioeconomic areas across the past ten years. Data from 2020 included in the report shows the overall suicide rate for people living in the lowest socioeconomic (most disadvantaged) areas (18.1 deaths per 100,000) was twice that of those living in the highest socioeconomic (least disadvantaged) areas (8.6 deaths per 100,000).

Suicide Prevention Australia calls for more efforts in suicide prevention centres on addressing the social determinants of health. Victorian data within the report shows 42% of people who died by suicide were under financial stress, 45% were unemployed and 22% experienced family violence. Queensland data was similar with higher rates of suicide in individuals who experienced financial stress, unemployment and family violence.

The report highlights the added risk of mental distress and suicide stemming from major adverse events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters. International research indicates the heightened risk of suicide is two to three years post-adverse event.

The suicide prevention sector believes a whole-of-government approach to suicide prevention is necessary to reduce suicide risk that addresses socioeconomic factors and the determinants of health for the greatest impact in suicide prevention.