Stronger recognition of local government needed in SA’s suicide prevention efforts
LGA provided that feedback in its submission to the State Government as part of its recently completed consultation on a paper that will inform the proposed future direction of the Plan.
Our submission also highlights the important role councils already play in supporting mental health and wellbeing through:
- community centres and libraries
- sporting facilities
- parks
- youth programs
- volunteer initiatives
- local partnerships that foster social connection and reduce isolation.
What we’re asking for
LGA’s submission to the draft South Australian Suicide Prevention Plan 2027-2032 also calls for greater attention to the impacts of housing insecurity, cost-of-living pressures, climate-related events and transport disadvantage on mental health and wellbeing.
We recommend closer collaboration across government sectors to address the social determinants of mental health and strengthen community resilience.
Our submission reiterates that successful suicide prevention initiatives require sustained investment in community connection, early intervention and local partnerships, supported by clear targets, public accountability and long-term resourcing.
Our recommendations
LGA has identified several priorities for strengthening the Plan:
- recognise local government as a key partner in suicide prevention planning and delivery. Councils are uniquely positioned as community leaders, convenors and public health authorities to deliver place-based prevention initiatives
- invest in community-based prevention and early intervention, particularly in regional and rural areas where social isolation and barriers to accessing services can be more pronounced
- provide dedicated and sustainable funding for councils, community organisations and Suicide Prevention Networks to deliver local mental health promotion and suicide prevention initiatives
- strengthen support for children and young people, including greater investment in school-based programs, youth initiatives, peer support and resilience-building activities
- address workforce shortages and service access challenges, particularly in regional and remote communities where attracting and retaining mental health professionals remains difficult
- improve data sharing, evaluation and public reporting to support evidence-based decision-making and better measure progress and outcomes.
The full submission is available on the LGA website.
Find out more
For more information, contact:
Belinda Tassone, LGA Senior Policy Advisor
Phone: 8224 2051
Email: belinda.tassone@lga.sa.gov.au