Supporting First Nations families and communities impacted by suicide
The Albanese Labor Government is providing $11 million to Thirrili Ltd to ensure the continued delivery of culturally safe support services to First Nations families and communities impacted by suicide and other traumatic loss. The investment provides a further two years of funding for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Organisation over the 2026-27 and 2027-28 financial years.
The funding will extend and strengthen support across Australia by improving access to culturally informed, community-led postvention services. Thirrili delivers the Indigenous Suicide Postvention Service, a national service available to all First Nations people, families and communities. Suicide remains the fifth leading cause of death among First Nations people, with suicide rates more than double the national average.
Reducing the suicide rate and supporting the social and emotional wellbeing of First Nations people is a key part of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. Quotes attributable to Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy: “Too many First Nations families and communities have been impacted by suicide. The devastating impact is enormous and ongoing.
"This funding will help ensure loved ones affected by suicide can access culturally safe support from a trusted Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation. "Thirrili delivers vital services and this investment will strengthen its ability to support healing, recovery and social and emotional wellbeing in First Nations communities." Quotes attributable to Thirrili CEO, Tanja Hirvonen: "We are so pleased to receive this funding, as it ensures continuity of care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities and allows us to continue to support and walk alongside communities during some of their hardest days." Quotes attributable to Thirrili Board Chair, Dr Summer May Finlay: "The expansion comes at a time when demand for culturally responsive social and emotional wellbeing and postvention support continues to grow across Australia." Thirrili supports First Nations families and communities after suicide.
Call 1800 805 801, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, Australia wide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit www.13yarn.org.au (link is external) No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Subscribe and stay up to date Connect with us PM&C acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, water and community.
We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.