Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies today announced vital funding for a number of suicide prevention projects across the state, as part of the NSW Government’s $8 million Suicide Prevention Fund.

“We know that people at risk of suicide and self-harm will not always come into contact with specialised mental health professionals.

“As a matter of priority, we need to reach out and connect with people who are at risk and need help.

“Suicide prevention is an issue at the forefront of the minds of communities across the state and we must support them with early intervention strategies to prevent devastating outcomes,” Mrs Davies said.

The Suicide Prevention Fund, part of the NSW Government’s record $1.8 billion annual investment in mental health, will help non-government organisations deliver local suicide prevention strategies.

Today Mrs Davies visited successful applicant ACON in Surry Hills, to announce the seven organisations from across the state who will receive funding over four years for their early intervention initiatives.

ACON who provide health support to the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI) community across Sydney, will receive $500,000 to deliver a first of its kind suicide prevention initiative for LGBTI individuals.

“Members of the LGBTI community are disproportionately affected by mental health issues and are at a greater risk of attempting suicide.

“This NSW Government funded ACON program will provide intensive support to LGBTI individuals and their families in the vulnerable period after a suicide attempt.

“Importantly, the program will also support GP’s to better respond to LGBTI people at risk of suicide,” Mrs Davies said.

The Suicide Prevention Fund is part of a range NSW Government initiatives aimed at lowering the rate of suicide and a key feature of the decade-long, whole-of-government enhancement of mental health care.

If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.