Summary
Date: 31 October 2020
Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia (GDPSA) have been asked by the Australian Government to renew the 2013 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Strategy (NATSISPS) in consultation with stakeholders and community members.
Overall the paper presents a comprehensive approach to suicide prevention. Key issues highlighted in the draft submission are:
- support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led response and for solutions presented in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Evaluation Project
- a stronger role for general practice/primary care support for mental health, including through the Medicare Benefits Schedule
- a whole-of system response that considers the factors beyond clinical issues that can lead to suicidality and poor mental health
- the need for culturally safe, trauma-informed healthcare in mainstream services; and integration with Aboriginal Medical Services.