Towards zero suicides
Reduce the rate of suicide deaths in NSW by 20% by 2023.
Why is this important?
Every suicide is a tragedy and touches so many. Families, friends and communities across NSW are devastated by the impact of suicide, with an estimated 17 lives lost each week. No one should have to go through the grief of losing a loved one to suicide.
Suicide prevention is everybody’s business and there is still much to do. Suicide is a complex problem and we all, as individuals, communities, the private sector and government need to take focused and coordinated steps to prevent it and provide greater support across the community.
How are we tracking?
The rate of suicide in NSW has been increasing over the last decade. The reasons for this increase are many and complex. In 2021, a total of 880 people died by suicide in NSW, which translates to a decline (from the 2017 baseline) in the rate of suicide to 10.6 per 100,000 persons. Reducing the rate of suicide requires continuous collaborative and compassionate action across the community.
The NSW Government continues to closely monitor the direct and indirect impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental wellbeing and suicide risk. The NSW Government has invested $130 million towards helping people whose mental health is affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including launching the biggest suicide prevention training program ever undertaken.
Download the Towards zero suicides data information sheet (PDF 171.96KB)
What are we doing?
Building on the $87 million investment in Towards Zero Suicides (2019-20 to 2021-22), a further $143.4 million has been committed over 4 years from 2022-23. This investment will continue the delivery of suicide prevention initiatives that address priorities in the NSW whole-of-government Strategic Framework for Suicide Prevention 2022-27 and contribute to the Premier’s Priority to reduce the suicide rate by 20% by 2023.
The initiatives being rolled out under the Towards Zero Suicides Priority are responsive to the needs of the community. Together they provide a holistic approach to suicide prevention and mental health and wellbeing, ranging from system changes and training for mental health practitioners and community leaders, to strengthening community care and expanding aftercare services.
The NSW Suicide Monitoring System provides data and insights that support communities, local organisations, and government agencies to more effectively respond to suicide.
More information can be accessed on the following websites:
Do you need help?
If you, or someone you know, is thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis or distress, help is available.
Contact a suicide prevention service or speak to your general practitioner. If you, or someone you know, are in immediate danger, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital Emergency Department.
