Suicide is a whole of community issue that requires coordinated and combined efforts from all levels of government, health care systems, community workers, workplaces, educational settings, community groups, the media, as well as individuals, families and communities.

Suicide prevention is complex as there are many contributing factors which can increase an individual’s risk of suicide including behaviours, environmental characteristics and psychosocial factors such as a history of self-harm, relationship problems, legal issues, financial pressures, unemployment and homelessness.

The NT faces a number of additional challenges, including:

• Remote locations with dispersed populations.
• Poor access to IT connectivity.
• Racism and discrimination.
• Historical and intergenerational trauma.
• Poor housing conditions.
• Attracting and retaining specialist workforces.

Suicide prevention also requires population level protective factors, such as affordable and secure housing, strengthening community and cultural connections, inclusive and supportive communities, meaningful employment, and community empowerment.

This plan has been strongly influenced by the voices of those who are impacted every day by experiences of living with suicidal distress and those who are supporting loved ones and kinship networks. Lived-experience voices will continue to lead and guide the implementation of actions identified in the strategy.