Description

This report details the findings of an inquiry by the Select Committee on Youth Suicides in the Northern Territory into the high rate of youth suicide in the Northern Territory when compared with other Australian states and territories. Through public consultation and a review of government policies and funding, programs and services, and data collection and research, the inquiry found young Indigenous men are the highest risk group for suicide, while suicides by young Indigenous females was also an emerging trend. The inquiry explored the many factors associated with suicide and identified those factors shown to increase the risk of suicide among youths in the Northern Territory. In an effort to appropriately address youth suicide in the Northern Territory, the report identifies four areas for further action: building strong, healthy and resilient communities; identifying and helping those at risk; helping the bereaved and stopping the contagion; smarter service delivery. 23 recommendations are proposed, including: the provision of mental health specialist staff for court and detention settings; promotion of youth friendly and culturally appropriate counselling and mental health services; promotion of the use of on-line and telephone crisis support services; provision of suicide bereavement training for frontline staff of Police, Health and Education departments; development of a database mapping all youth and community related services provided by all three tiers of government and the non government sector; and the establishment of youth development officers and community development officers within each shire.