Media Release - Universal Aftercare
A new support service which targets Western Queenslanders with an elevated risk of suicide is being rolled out across the region.
Universal Aftercare is a service that rapidly supports an individual who has experienced a suicidal crisis or a suicide attempt, amid evidence that further suicide attempts are more likely soon after an initial attempt.
“This service is a potential life-saver for Western Queenslanders in crisis who need help to get back on track,” Western Queensland Primary Health Network (WQPHN) CEO Sandy Gillies said.
“We know that the days and weeks following a suicide attempt are a high-risk period and we want to ensure the best support is available, regardless of where people live in our vast patch of Queensland.”
“Out here we experience a much higher rate of suicide than metropolitan regions so there is an urgent need for a service like this, especially in that crucial period after a suicidal event.”
Universal Aftercare is a collaborative initiative between the WQPHN, the Hospital and Health Service (HHS), and WQPHN-commissioned providers—Stride, selectability, and Anglicare.
With dedicated funding, this service integrates aftercare support into hospitals, primary healthcare centres, and community-based services across the region.
Following an assessment by a hospital-based clinical coordinator, individuals will be connected to local health providers, where support coordinators will provide non-clinical care and practical assistance aimed at reducing the risk of re-attempts.
This includes fostering social connectedness, improving access to clinical and community services, and empowering individuals to self-manage and enhance their mental well-being.
“The structure of this health initiative has been based on a broad, 12-month consultation effort with local communities to ensure that it meets the unique needs of Western Queenslanders,” CWHHS Chief Executive Anthony West said.
“This program also provides support for families and carers who often live in very remote communities hundreds of kilometres from the nearest GP or hospital service.”
The Universal Aftercare service will be delivered by leading mental health service provider Selectability in the North West, in the Central West by Anglicare which has vast experience working with vulnerable people, and in the South West by Stride; a leader in early intervention services.
“It’s so important to have a safety net for people at risk of further suicidal events, but more than that, it has to be the right kind of support for the individual,” Sandy Gillies explains.
“This service aims to get to the source of someone’s distress in a timely way so that they can get back on the road to recovery as quickly as possible, in a safe, culturally appropriate way.”
Universal Aftercare is part of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement and supporting Bilateral Agreement between the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments.
For more information about this service, please contact your local provider.
- North West - selectability Phone: 07 4453 0100
- Central West - Anglicare Phone: 1300 610 610
- South West - Stride Phone: 1300 00 1907
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, phone 000 for emergency services.
For support 24/7:
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467
- 13Yarn - 13 92 76
- Head to Health 1800 595 212 (8.30am-5pm Monday-Friday excluding Public Holidays)
Western Qld Primary Health Network (WQPHN) quick facts:
- commissions (or funds) health services in Western Queensland
- covers almost one million square kilometres of Queensland, 55% of the state’s total land area
- aligns health investment with demonstrated population health needs
- uses health intelligence data to orientate health services efficiently and effectively
- ensures the right primary health care is delivered, at the right time by the right provider
- advised by GPs and other health professionals and consumers
- one of 31 PHNs across Australia established and funded by the Commonwealth Government
For picture and interview opportunities: Media Liaison - Paul Stone (WQPHN) M: 0414 326 848 E: paul@sticksandstonespr.com.au