Damon Mcknight
Suicide is a serious issue in Australia, with the country recording the 11th highest suicide rate in the world in 2023. While the suicide rate among Australian adolescents has decreased, certain groups of young adults, including those from Indigenous, rural, or refugee backgrounds, are more likely to die by suicide. Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, with middle and older-aged men dying by suicide at rates 4-6 times greater than women. The Northern Territory has the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide, with 17 to 20 deaths per 100,000 people.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| City with the highest suicide rate | Northern Territory |
| Suicide rate in the city | 17.0 per 100,000 people |
| Suicide rate in regional Australia | 15.5 deaths per 100,000 |
| Suicide rate in capital cities | 10.0 deaths per 100,000 |
| Suicide rate for males in remote and very remote Australia | More than double the rate for males in major cities |
| Suicide rate for males in major cities | 10.0-11.2 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Suicide rate for children | 1.8 |
| Suicide rate for Australian adolescents | Decreasing but remains a prominent issue |
| Suicide rate for young adult men | Decreases of between 5 and 8 deaths per 100,000 |
| Suicide rate for middle-aged men | Increases of between 4 and 7 deaths per 100,000 |
| Suicide rate for middle and older-aged men | 4-6 times greater than females |
| Suicide rate for middle and older-aged men compared to teenage males | 2-3 times greater |
| Suicide rate for Australian males | 20.1 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Suicide rate for Australian females | 6.3 deaths per 100,000 people |
| Suicide rate for LGBTIQ+ community members | 10 times higher than the general Australian population |
| Suicide rate for males aged 85 and older | Highest age-specific rate of suicide |
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What You'll Learn
Northern Territory has the highest rate
Australia has seen a consistent decrease in suicide rates across the country, with all states except the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory reporting a decrease between 2019 and 2020. However, the Northern Territory has consistently reported the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide among all states and territories. The latest figures from 2023 put the rate at 17.0 suicides per 100,000 people, which is significantly higher than the national average.
The Northern Territory's high suicide rate is a cause for concern and highlights the need for targeted interventions and support services in the region. While the exact reasons behind the high rate are complex and multifaceted, it is crucial to examine the unique social, economic, and cultural factors that may contribute to this issue. Furthermore, the Northern Territory has a significant Indigenous population, and it is well-documented that Indigenous Australians are disproportionately affected by suicide.
Indigenous Australians, particularly those living in rural or remote communities, face a range of challenges that can impact their mental health and well-being. These challenges include socioeconomic disadvantages, limited access to quality healthcare and support services, and the ongoing effects of historical trauma and intergenerational trauma. These factors can contribute to an increased risk of suicide among Indigenous individuals.
Additionally, the Northern Territory has a large remote and very remote population. It is important to note that remote and very remote areas of Australia have consistently reported higher suicide rates than regional and major cities. The isolation and limited access to services in these remote areas can contribute to higher rates of suicide. The stigma associated with mental health issues and suicide in some communities can also hinder help-seeking behaviours and access to appropriate support.
Addressing the high suicide rate in the Northern Territory requires a comprehensive approach that considers the unique needs and challenges of the region. This includes increasing access to culturally appropriate mental health services, addressing social and economic disadvantages, and promoting community-based initiatives that foster resilience and connection. By working closely with local communities and incorporating their insights and expertise, targeted interventions and support services can be effectively designed and implemented to reduce the impact of suicide in the Northern Territory.
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Higher rates in regional areas
While the Northern Territory has the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide among Australian states and territories, at 17.0 to 20 deaths per 100,000 people, it is important to note that suicide rates in regional Australia are consistently higher than in capital cities. In 2023, the age-standardised suicide rate in regional areas was 15.5 deaths per 100,000 people, compared to 10.0 deaths per 100,000 in capital cities. This disparity has persisted over the years, with rates in regional areas increasing from 15.5 in 2022 to 16.7 in 2021, while rates in capital cities decreased from 10.5 in 2022 to 9.8 in 2021.
Several factors contribute to the higher suicide rates in regional Australia. One factor is the higher prevalence of risk factors in these areas. Psychosocial risk factors, in particular, are commonly reported, present in almost two-thirds of deaths by suicide. Additionally, Indigenous youth, those from rural backgrounds, and refugees are statistically more likely to die by suicide, and these groups are often overrepresented in regional areas.
The impact of unemployment on suicide rates is also notable, especially among men. Studies indicate a correlation between the length of unemployment and the rate of suicides in men aged 25-34 and 55-64. This may be a contributing factor in regional areas, where employment opportunities might be more limited.
Furthermore, access to mental health services and support systems can be more challenging in regional areas. The distance from major cities and specialised healthcare facilities may create barriers to seeking help, potentially exacerbating risk factors and increasing the likelihood of suicide.
It is worth noting that the suicide rate for males in remote and very remote regions of Australia was more than double that of males in major cities in 2021-2023. This highlights the need for targeted interventions and support for at-risk groups in these areas. Overall, the higher rates of suicide in regional Australia underscore the importance of addressing geographical disparities in access to mental health services and promoting suicide prevention initiatives tailored to the unique needs of these communities.
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Males at greater risk
According to statistics, males are at a significantly higher risk of suicide in Australia. In 2020, 2,384 males died by suicide, compared to 755 females. This trend continued into 2021, with 2,358 male suicides and 786 female suicides. The standardised suicide rate for males was 20.1 deaths per 100,000 people, while for females, it was 6.3 deaths per 100,000 people. This disparity is not unique to Australia, as high-income countries worldwide have reported similar patterns, with men dying by suicide at a rate of 12.3 per 100,000 and women at 5.9 per 100,000.
In Australia, the overall suicide rate for males living in remote and very remote areas in 2021-2023 was more than double that of males in major cities. Additionally, age plays a factor, as middle and older-aged men continue to die by suicide at rates 4-6 times greater than females. Males aged 85 and older experience the highest age-specific rate of suicide.
The length of unemployment also appears to be a contributing factor, as studies suggest a correlation between the number of suicides in men and periods of unemployment. This is particularly evident in men aged 25-34 and 55-64.
Furthermore, young males are at a higher risk of suicide than their female counterparts. While age-standardised suicide rates have remained stable for females, there has been an increase of 4-7 deaths per 100,000 among middle-aged men, and a decrease of 5-8 deaths per 100,000 in young adult men.
These statistics highlight the heightened risk of suicide among males in Australia and underscore the importance of targeted suicide prevention measures for this demographic group.
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Indigenous youth at risk
Indigenous youth suicide is a critical issue in Australia, with the rate of suicide among Indigenous children and teenagers being significantly higher than that of their non-Indigenous peers. In 2017, suicide was the leading cause of death for Indigenous children aged 5 to 17, and this age group had a suicide rate five times higher than that of non-Indigenous children. Furthermore, over the past five years, Indigenous youth have accounted for one in every four Australian children who died by suicide, despite making up only 2.8% of the population.
Several factors contribute to the high rate of suicide among Indigenous youth. One significant factor is the impact of colonisation and disconnection from traditional lands and culture. The loss of cultural identity and the ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma, marginalisation, and neglect have led to feelings of hopelessness and despair among Indigenous young people. Additionally, poverty and social exclusion play a substantial role in Indigenous youth suicide. Extreme poverty, racialised marginalisation, substandard housing, and economic marginalisation are all legacies of colonisation that continue to affect Indigenous communities today.
The lack of accessible and culturally appropriate mental health services in remote and rural areas, where many Indigenous communities are located, is another critical issue. This lack of access to professional support means that suicide prevention often falls to community members, who may not have the necessary training or resources to provide effective support and intervention.
To address this crisis, it is essential to recognise the unique historical and cultural context of Indigenous communities and the ongoing impacts of colonisation. This includes acknowledging the role of intergenerational trauma and cultural disconnection in Indigenous youth suicide. Investing in local workforces with cultural knowledge and training them in providing intense psychosocial support for young adults is a recommended approach. Additionally, embedding Elders and cultural healers in mental health and suicide prevention services can help bridge the gap between traditional and Western practices.
Furthermore, addressing the social and economic disadvantages faced by Indigenous communities is crucial. Reducing poverty, improving living conditions, and promoting cultural connection can help empower Indigenous youth and build self-belief, self-confidence, and self-respect. By tackling these underlying issues, we can work towards reducing the tragically high rate of suicide among Indigenous youth in Australia.
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Suicide prevention measures
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Northern Territory (NT) had the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide, with 17.0 to 20 suicide-related deaths per 100,000 people.
Suicide prevention is a national policy priority in Australia, with the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care implementing various strategies, plans, programs, and research to address this critical issue. Here are some key suicide prevention measures in place:
- National Suicide Prevention Trial: This initiative involves trialling tailored services and programs across 12 regions in Australia with higher-than-average suicide rates. It aims to customise interventions to the specific needs of these areas.
- National Suicide and Self-Harm Monitoring System: This system collects and coordinates information on suicide and self-harm. By gathering data, authorities can identify trends, high-risk groups, and effective prevention strategies.
- Prevention Hub: The Black Dog Institute and Everymind collaborate on this research program, which targets people at a heightened risk of mental health conditions and suicide. This initiative contributes to broader efforts to bolster mental health support across Australia.
- Suicide Prevention Research Fund: This fund supports research aimed at enhancing suicide prevention strategies and translating knowledge into more effective services. Investing in research is vital for evidence-based policy formulation.
- National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention Strategy: This strategy focuses on early intervention and community-centric approaches to suicide prevention for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It takes a holistic view of mental, physical, cultural, and spiritual health.
- National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement: This agreement between the Commonwealth of Australia and state and territory governments underscores a collaborative approach to enhancing mental health and suicide prevention services. It outlines roles, responsibilities, governance, data evaluation, and financial arrangements.
- National Strategic Framework: This framework, supported by the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Plan 2013-2023, provides a long-term, evidence-based policy framework. It aims to address health enablers, such as a culturally respectful and non-discriminatory health system, and mental health and social-emotional wellbeing.
- Crisis Support Services: Australia has crisis support services, such as Beyond Blue, that people can call or reach out to in times of emotional distress or suicidal thoughts. These services provide confidential support and guidance to individuals in need.
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Frequently asked questions
The Northern Territory has the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide, with 17 to 20 deaths per 100,000 people.
The age-standardised rates of death by suicide are higher in regional Australia, with 15.5 to 16.7 deaths per 100,000 people outside capital cities. In comparison, capital cities recorded 9.8 to 10.5 deaths per 100,000 people.
Suicide occurs in males at a rate three times greater than that for females. In 2019, the standardised suicide rate for males was 20.1 deaths per 100,000 people, while for females, it was 6.3 deaths per 100,000 people. In 2023, males living in remote and very remote areas of Australia had a suicide rate more than double that of males in major cities.
The age-standardised death rate for suicide in Australia in 2019 was 13.1 deaths per 100,000 people. Preliminary estimates for 2020 and 2021 are 12.1 and 12.0, respectively.
Youth of Indigenous, rural, or refugee backgrounds, as well as those in welfare, have been observed to have a higher likelihood of dying by suicide. Additionally, the LGBTIQ+ community reports attempting suicide at a rate 10 times higher than the general Australian population.
