This year marks the third and final year of the World Suicide Prevention Day theme ‘Changing the Narrative on Suicide’, with the call to action ‘Start the Conversation’. 

Changing the narrative means challenging stigma and misunderstanding around suicide and creating environments where people feel safe to talk about what they are experiencing and seek support. 

A conversation can be a powerful place to start. Listening without judgement, checking in with someone we are concerned about and helping people connect with appropriate support can all make a difference. 

But changing the narrative is also about creating broader change. It means ensuring suicide prevention remains a priority and building health and community systems where people can access compassionate, appropriate support when and where they need it. 

Suicide prevention in south east Melbourne 

At South Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (SEMPHN), we work with local communities, healthcare providers and people with lived and living experience to strengthen suicide prevention across south east Melbourne. 

Our work includes commissioning and supporting programs that aim to: 

• prevent suicide 
• support people who have experienced suicidal distress 
• support families, friends and communities affected by suicide. 

We also work to strengthen connections between services and improve access to mental health care and other supports across our region. 

Suicide prevention is something we all have a role in. This World Suicide Prevention Day, we encourage our community to help change the narrative: make space for conversations, listen with compassion and help connect people with support. 

Free community suicide prevention training this September 

Throughout September, Wesley Community Services is delivering free suicide prevention education and training across south east Melbourne as part of SEMPHN’s Community Suicide Prevention Education and Training program. 

The sessions are designed to build suicide prevention awareness, confidence and practical skills among community members and non-clinical frontline workers. Participants will learn how to recognise when someone may be at risk, respond safely and compassionately, and connect people with appropriate support and referral pathways. 

A range of introductory and comprehensive sessions are available until 30 September 2026, helping build the capacity of people and communities across south east Melbourne to play a role in suicide prevention. 

View upcoming training sessions and register 

Learn more about suicide prevention services and resources in south east Melbourne: 
SEMPHN Suicide Prevention 

Support is available 

If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. 

Lifeline: 13 11 14 – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 
Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 – available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 

If someone’s life is in danger or there is an immediate risk of harm, call 000.