The Centre of Best Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention (CBPATSISP) is honoured to announce its recognition as one of the top 18 finalists out of 114 entries in the Shaping Australia Awards, organised by Universities Australia. Despite not securing the top prize, the acknowledgment received serves to underscore the substantial contributions made by CBPATSISP to the ongoing efforts in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide prevention.
Project Overview:
Suicide among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is twice as high as other Australians, and for younger people its higher still.
The University of Western Australia’s Centre of Best Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention is committed to identifying and promoting evidence-based suicide prevention practices to empower people and communities.
Importantly the centre’s programs and services are screened through an Indigenous lens, disseminating a range of tools and resources through various avenues for maximum positive impact within communities.
The centre’s Aboriginal-led research actively performs collaborations, including:
- strengthening social and emotional wellbeing in the criminal justice system
- working with Telethon Kids Institute to co-design an aftercare program following a suicide attempt
- examining coronial responses to suicides of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with the centre working to ensure the uptake of its recommendations.
Led by Aboriginal academic Professor Patricia Dudgeon AM, the team is passionate about understanding the complexity of this issue and saving lives. The Centre prioritises Indigenous voice for solutions that work for Indigenous suicide prevention.
CBPATSISP, led by Aboriginal academic Professor Patricia Dudgeon AM, is at the forefront of efforts to reduce the alarmingly high rates of suicide among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By prioritizing Indigenous perspectives and cultural sensitivity, CBPATSISP has been instrumental in driving positive change and saving lives.
CBPATSISP extends its heartfelt gratitude to all supporters and stakeholders who have contributed to our success.
If you or someone you know needs help or support, you can contact your local Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisation or
- 13YARN: 13 92 76
- Lifeline: 131 114
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
- Mensline: 1300 78 99 78
- Beyondblue 1300 22 46 36
- Q Life 1800 18 45 27
- Open Arms Veterans & Families Counselling 1800 01 10 46
- The National Indigenous Critical Response Service 1800 80 58 01