New Great South Coast Suicide Prevention Group formed to combat 'higher than average' rates of suicide in south-west Victoria

Funded by the federal health department, the Great South Coast Suicide Prevention Group will develop a place-based approach to develop strategies for suicide prevention locally.

Headed by Glenelg Shire Mayor Cr Anita Rank, the 18-member leadership group will contribute expert advice to support and collaborate with the community.

The group convened for the first time on Friday in Warrnambool, joined by Western Victoria PHN chief executive, Dr Leanne Beagley.

"Mental health is a priority issue for Western Victoria PHN. Therefore, part of our Commonwealth Government funding allocation toward suicide prevention is covering the cost of the trial," Dr Beagley said.

"This initiative will build on current projects underway in the region and identify gaps in services or activities.

"This is not about replacing existing programs but ensuring programs and services are working together to improve coordination and reduce service gaps.

"We are all working toward a common goal of improving mental health in our communities."

68 people died by suicide in the south-west from 2012-2016, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

Warrnambool, Hamilton, Portland, Colac and Mortlake had an age-standardised suicide death rate of 12.5 per 100,000 people in that time, with suicide among the top ten leading causes of death.

Suicide is the leading cause of death among people aged 15-44 and is more likely among men. More than 4000 calls are made in south-west Victoria to Lifeline each month on average alone.

The work of the group will cover the shires of Corangamite, Glenelg, Moyne and Souther Grampians and the City of Warrnambool.

Cr Rank said she and her fellow group members were looking forward to making a difference for local individuals and families affected by suicide.

"There is evidence to suggest that suicide rates are slightly higher in this part of Victoria, certainly in a certain range of vulnerable groups and demographics across this region," she said.

"It is important to develop a strategy with long-lasting effects that draws from lived experiences.

"I'm honoured to be part of a group with high level skills and expertise in the area, and who are willing to share their knowledge and resources for such an important program."

The leadership group has representatives from a number of local organisations, including Brophy Family & Youth Services, St John of God Warrnambool, South West Healthcare, Victoria Police and National Centre for Farmer Health.

It will be in place until June 2020.

In that time it will review recommendations from the commissioned GSC Suicide Prevention 'Current State' report and will focus on integrating suicide prevention services in the region.

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467

Kids Helpline (for young people aged 5 to 25 years): 1800 55 1800

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