Further support for men and families

The success of an E-Learning tool to assist organisations working with men at risk of suicide has prompted the Government to expand distribution of the package.

Minister for Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs, Mal Brough, said the Men at Risk of Suicide E-Learning Tool helps Family Relationship Services Program (FRSP) providers identify men at risk from suicide as a result of relationship breakdown.

"The breakdown of a relationship is hard on everyone involved; men, women, children and extended family and friends," Minister Brough said.

"The risk of male suicide is heightened by relationship breakdown, and this E-Learning Tool provides valuable information to those agencies and organisations working with men in this position.

"It will help organisations identify men at risk of suicide and, we hope, help reduce the incidence of suicide and the consequent tragic effects on family and friends.

"Given recent media reports pointing to young men being at a higher risk of suicide, it is timely that this programme has been extended now."

The Men at Risk of Suicide E-Learning Tool was developed by Crisis Support Services and funded by the Coalition Government.

"The E-Learning Tool has proved very worthwhile and due to demand, a further 250 will be distributed to more than 50 organisations across Australia," Minister Brough said.

"The E-Learning Tool will be sent to local branches of organisations such as Anglicare, Centacare, Family Mediation Centres and Relationships Australia, among others who are funded under the Government’s FRSP.

"This is a program targeted at those working directly with men at risk of suicide and provides a framework for effectively responding to this crisis situation.

"The further distribution of this valuable resource is part of the Coalition Government’s commitment to helping men at risk as a result of relationship breakdown."

The Family Relationship Services Program funds a range of family support services, from intervention services to post separation services. They are located in every State and Territory and in a range of metropolitan, rural and regional locations.

Further information can be obtained by calling the Family Relationship Advice Line on 1800 050 321 between 8am and 8pm Monday to Friday and 10am and 4pm Saturdays (except national public holidays), or by visiting Family Relationship Online.

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