The Western Australian Government has announced the appointment of new members to  the Ministerial Council for Suicide Prevention to implement Western Australia’s first Suicide Prevention Strategy.

 

The council has significant expertise and also includes newly-appointed chair Peter Fitzpatrick, who has a distinguished record of involvement in youth crisis and suicide prevention services; Lifeline WA CEO Amanda Wheeler; and Jenny Allen, Youth Focus CEO.

 

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton said the members will provide expert, practical and independent advice to the State Government on suicide prevention initiatives such as Community Action Plans (CAPS).

 

CAPS is to be rolled out in 50 communities and 50 organisations throughout the State.

 

“All these people care deeply about reducing the rate of suicide and suicidal behaviour in WA,” Mrs Morton said.

 

“I am confident we have the expertise and experience in suicide prevention now sitting on that council to make a significant inroad to reducing and preventing suicide in WA.”

 

Mr Fitzpatrick is also chair of the Waste Authority and has previously been CEO of two peak bodies, in the legal profession and the motor industry. He also served with distinction in the Australian Army.

 

Other new members include Darryl Kickett, an Aboriginal health expert who will join existing members Mental Health commissioner Eddie Bartnik; Adele Cox, lecturer at The University of Western Australia; Chris Gostelow, manager School Psychology Service; Jade Lewis, founder Jade Lewis and Friends; Eric Lumsden, director general Department of Planning; Brian Mayfield, Hyden farmer; and Sam Walsh, CEO of Rio Tinto Iron Ore Group, and Estelle Dragun, mother of late Perth journalist Charmaine Dragun.

 

“The State Government has allocated $13 million for the Suicide Prevention Strategy and the council will play a vital role in leading this initiative,” Mrs Morton said.

 

The new members of the council have been appointed for three years with the option to reapply.