Today, Labor met with mental health service providers in the Perth South region as they prepare to participate in a suicide prevention trial site.

Senator Deborah O’Neill, Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health, has convened a suicide prevention round table with Madeleine King, Member for Brand. Together, they have heard from mental health stakeholders ahead of Perth South becoming a suicide prevention trial site.

Representatives of Perth South’s mental health sector gave their perspectives on suicide prevention policy. We acknowledge the important work they do and are continuously inspired by their efforts to address suicide prevention.

In Western Australia, there were 371 deaths by suicide in 2016. Sadly, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are approximately twice as likely to die by suicide than non- Indigenous Australians.

It is extremely encouraging that Perth South has been identified as a suicide prevention trial site, with a particular focus on the prevention of suicide amongst young people. In 2016, suicide accounted for over one-third of deaths of young people in Western Australia.

Labor is also pleased the Turnbull Government adopted our 2016 election commitment to roll out a total of 12 suicide prevention trial sites.

**For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Other services include Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978 **