For every life lost to suicide, there are community members who quietly step forward, determined to help prevent the next.
Their stories, and the impact of their efforts, have been recognised in a new publication – A decade of community-led suicide prevention (2016 to 2026, and beyond) – released this week by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN).
The publication reflects on 10 years of local action through each region’s Suicide Prevention Community Action Plan (SPCAP), highlighting the partnerships, initiatives, and community leadership that have helped shape suicide prevention across northern Queensland.
While it showcases many achievements, it represents only a fraction of the collective effort undertaken by communities, service providers, and stakeholders over the past decade.
Looking to the future, it also highlights how the plans are evolving to align with Australia’s National Suicide Prevention Strategy and Outcomes Framework 2025-2035, ensuring local efforts continue to respond to the needs of communities.
NQPHN Chief Executive Officer Ben Tooth said the publication was a tribute to those who had stepped forward to help prevent suicide and supporting those affected by it.
“Many of these efforts have happened quietly and without recognition, driven by volunteers, people with lived experience, community leaders, and organisations committed to creating hope and connection,” Mr Tooth said.
“We are proud to work alongside our Suicide Prevention Community Action Plan providers and community partners to support this important work.
“Their commitment, leadership, and local knowledge have helped shape a stronger, more coordinated approach to suicide prevention across northern Queensland.”
The action plans focus on community-led suicide prevention and postvention initiatives that complement traditional health system responses.
Northern Queensland’s four plans encompass all local government areas across the Torres and Cape, Cairns and Hinterland, Townsville, and Mackay regions. They are designed to respond to the changing needs of local communities.
Rather than delivering clinical services, the plans focus on the social factors that support wellbeing and help reduce suicide risk, including education, employment, housing, and social connection.
As a result, Suicide Prevention Community Action Plan activities can range from advocacy and awareness campaigns to community events, workplace initiatives, and other projects that bring people together.
The four action plans work in tandem with the Joint Regional Wellbeing Plan, which brings together mental health, alcohol and other drugs, and suicide prevention planning across northern Queensland’s health system and communities.