SENATOR THE HON JAN MCLUCAS SHADOW MINISTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH SHADOW MINISTER FOR HOUSING AND HOMELESSNESS SENATOR FOR QUEENSLAND MEDIA RELEASE WORLD SUICIDE PREVENTION DAY A TIMELY REMINDER Today is World Suicide Prevention Day, an opportunity to raise awareness and break down the stigma associated with suicide. Shadow Minister for Mental Health, Senator Jan McLucas said suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged between 15 and 44. “Great work is being done all over the country to support young people and we’ve come a long way in reducing the stigma, yet suicide continues to be a very real problem in our community, particularly among young people,” Senator Jan McLucas said. “Improving support and treatment for people with a mental illness is an important health measure and is why Labor in government announced Australia’s largest ever mental health package.” “We are now mid-way through our mental health reform program and it is critical that the Abbott Government continues to deliver the full benefit of Labor’s package.” Senator McLucas said today is a reminder to the Abbott Government that cuts to mental health funding following the completion of their review later this year would have serious consequences for people with mental health issues, including young people. “There is widespread concern that the review is a precursor to the Abbott Government delivering major cuts to mental health programs and support,” Senator McLucas said. “People living with a mental illness are already among the many vulnerable Australians on the Abbott Government’s hit list.” The Abbott Government tasked the National Mental Health Commission to undertake the review which is to focus on efficiency and effectiveness. It is due to present its report in November this year. WEDNESDAY, 10 SEPTEMBER 2014 MEDIA CONTACT: BELINDA FEATHERSTONE 0408 743 457
Posted on: Tue, 09 Sep 2014 23:41:57 +0000
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