The Commission acknowledges and pays respect to the past and present Traditional Custodians and Elders of this nation and the continuation of cultural, spiritual and educational practices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website contains images or names of people who have passed away
As Victorians experience lockdown and many of us are faced with changing restrictions, this week is a good opportunity to check in with friends, family, neighbours, colleagues or those within your communitites. September 10 marks World Suicide Prevention Day and R U OK? Day, reminders to continue to reach out to those around you and of our national commitment to work towards zero deaths from suicide. It is also important to acknowledge and consider that many of us may be impacted by the changes happening around us, even if they do not affect us directly. If you are experiencing heightened concern or need to talk, there are a growing number of hotlines available for you to reach out to. During these challenging times your mental and physical health and safety are a priority.
Our team has been working behind the scenes to progress a number of our projects, including the National Disaster Mental Health Framework, and to develop supports for Australians to get through these challenging times together.
Recently we launched #GettingThroughThisTogether to provide tips and support for our mental health as we continue to navigate COVID-19. It has been heartening to see these tips being picked up and shared by many in our community, so thank you for your support on getting these messages out.
Together, we will be able to reach more Australians and help them prioritise their mental health and wellbeing.
Last month, the Commission launched #GettingThroughThisTogether - a national conversation sharing practical tips and support for the mental health and wellbeing of all Australians as COVID-19 continues. There are 10 new practical tips developed in collaboration with more than 20 mental health and social service organisations to help Australians get through this challenging time.
Project update: National Natural Disaster Mental Health Framework
Learning from the experiences and expertise of communities, disaster recovery experts and government agencies, the Commission is developing a National Natural Disaster Mental Health Framework that will provide guidance on programs to support social recovery and resilience in communities affected by natural disasters.
The Framework is funded from the Australian Government’s 2020 $76 Million Bushfire Mental Health Response Package and will improve how governments work together to support people’s mental health before, during and after natural disasters.
The final Framework is expected to be released in June 2021 with working documents available for comment earlier.
September 10 marks R U OK? Day and World Suicide Prevention Day, a time to check in with family and friends as they go through this challenging year. Learn what to say when someone says they’re not OK and guide them through how they can continue a conversation that could change a life at ruok.org.au.
You can also find more support and information around suicide prevention at suicidepreventionaust.org
Further mental health support for Victorians during COVID-19 second wave
The Commission welcomes the announcement that the Government will be providing an additional$31.9 million to create 15 mental health clinics across Victoria and enhance digital and phone services for specific groups that are experiencing significant challenges during the new restrictions.
This followed announcment by the Victorian government that Victorians will receive a nearly $60million boost to the mental health system in the state to strengthen the capacity of services.
The Commission has a new opportunity to join the team. We are seeking a Communications Manager for a wide-ranging role that involves strategic and hands on communication, stakeholder engagement and media relations support.
The Commission acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands throughout Australia. We pay our respects to their clans, and to the elders, past and present, and acknowledge their continuing connection to land, sea and community.
Diversity
The Commission is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination in the provision of health services. The Commission welcomes all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.
Lived Experience
We acknowledge the individual and collective contributions of those with a lived and living experience of mental ill-health and suicide, and those who love, have loved and care for them. Each person’s journey is unique and a valued contribution to Australia’s commitment to mental health suicide prevention systems reform.
