The next State Suicide Prevention Plan is one step closer thanks to more than 3,000 South Australians who have had their say on tackling suicide prevention.

Minister for Health and Wellbeing Stephen Wade says several months of public consultation has been used to shape the What We Heard About Suicide in South Australia report.

He says suicide prevention is a high priority for the state government, which is why it introduced nation-leading laws on suicide prevention into Parliament last week.

“In all, Wellbeing SA heard from 3,200 South Australians – individuals, community groups, peak bodies, government agencies, and more – who generously shared their lived-experiences and ideas with us.

The What We Heard About Suicide in South Australia report has been released for public feedback until Friday 8 October.

“The experience and wisdom of South Australians who have been directly or indirectly impacted by suicide and suicidal distress has helped us understand what we need to do to reduce and prevent suicide in our community, Mr Wade says.

“Thank you to the thousands of people who have taken the time to connect with us and share their experiences and wisdom to inform the development of the next State Suicide Prevention Plan 2022-2025.”

MP Dan Cregan is the Premier’s Advocate for Suicide Prevention and Community Resilience. He says it is critical to hear what South Australians consider will make a difference in preventing suicide.

“Talking about suicide can be difficult, but we know that listening and understanding people’s stories and experiences will help shape the best possible Suicide Prevention Plan,” he says.

“By sharing the What We Heard About Suicide in South Australia report, we are ensuring that we have properly captured what South Australians think will make a difference in preventing suicide, with this further consultation period now an opportunity for the community to have their say on potential enhancements.”

To view the “What We Heard About Suicide in South Australia” report and to provide feedback by Friday 8 October, visit the Wellbeing SA website.