Suicide is a major public health issue that kills more than 3,000 Australians in a typical year. On average, approximately 65,000 Australians attempt suicide every year and nine die by suicide every day, three-quarters of whom are male.
In 2019, 3,318 people took their own lives; roughly double the national road toll. It is the leading cause of death for people aged between 15 and 49. Those at greatest risk of suicide are people who have previously attempted to take their own lives – international research suggests 15 to 25 per cent of those who attempt suicide once will do so again.
The cost of all this is huge, yet suicide is largely preventable.
Providing evidence-based care and resources to people and their loved ones after a suicide attempt is an essential part of reducing suicide rates.
Beyond Blue is committed to breaking through the social barriers blocking open and safe discussion of suicide and suicide prevention. Our role in advising, informing, and promoting hope for those touched by suicide, or depression or anxiety, and reducing the discrimination and stigma surrounding these issues, is inextricably linked with suicide prevention.
Find out more about our work in suicide prevention.