STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms BELYEA (Dunkley) (13:43): 'Are you okay?' Those three words changed my life. They were asked by friends when I was struggling with the trauma of domestic and family violence. They helped break through the shame that stopped me from admitting I needed support.

Many people in this House and across our fine communities have lost friends to suicide. Unfortunately, mental health challenges touch all Australians. Around one in two people will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime.

They may be young people finding their way in the world, parents supporting their families or veterans living with PTSD. These experiences remind us why continued investment in mental health and suicide prevention services is so important. Services like headspace in Frankston have provided more than 13,000 free appointments to young people.

It's a safe place to say, 'Hey, I'm not okay, and I need help,' without fear of judgement or stigma. That is why this R U OK? Day it is important that all of us ask each other, 'Are you okay?' It's about taking the time to ask someone how they are really doing, listening with care and compassion and offering support when it's needed.

Today I encourage everyone in this House, whether at home or at work, to check in and ask people whether they are okay.