NSW Government Launches Landmark Suicide Monitoring System

The NSW Government has introduced the state’s first ever Suicide Monitoring System, which will provide up-to-date data for health and support services about the number of suicide deaths across the state.

Member for Manly, James Griffin said the Suicide Monitoring System will inform critical decisions about services and local health responses in communities impacted by suicide.

“Instead of relying on two year-old data released by the ABS, we now have near real-time data that means we can be more responsive and target services to current community needs,” Mr Griffin said.

Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor released the first public report from the Suicide Monitoring System, which included data on the number, age and gender of suspected suicides.

“The first public report from the Suicide Monitoring System showed the number of suicide deaths in 2020 is tracking almost identically to the equivalent period in 2019. From 1 January to 30 September 2020, there were 673 suspected or confirmed suicide deaths reported in NSW. That is one more than the same time period in 2019.”

“While every death by suicide is a tragedy, we need to underline that there has not been an overall spike in numbers in a year that has delivered so many challenges.”

The next priority for NSW Government is to develop an enhanced data set, which will include more information about key vulnerable groups, including any previous contact with health services and any social, economic or other pressures that may have contributed to their susceptibility.

Towards Zero Suicides is a NSW Premier’s Priority and the NSW Government is investing $87 million over three years in new suicide prevention initiatives.

If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, please seek help immediately by calling 000 or one of these services:

• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
• NSW Mental Health Line 1800 011 511