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Suicide is a significant issue in Australia, with the country ranking 10th in the world for suicide rates. While various factors contribute to this complex problem, certain groups are disproportionately affected, including Indigenous Australians, adolescents, and young adults. Examining state-level data reveals that the Northern Territory (NT) consistently reports the highest age-standardised suicide rate, with approximately 20 deaths per 100,000 people. However, it's important to note that other states, such as Queensland and Western Australia, have also experienced increases in suicide rates in recent years. Understanding these trends is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies and supporting those at risk.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| State with the highest suicide rate | Northern Territory (NT) |
| Age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide in the state with the highest rate | 20 per 100,000 (2020) |
| Age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide in the state with the highest rate | 20.5 per 100,000 (2022) |
| Age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide in the state with the highest rate | 18.4 per 100,000 (2021) |
| State with the highest rate of death from suicide when adjusted for population size and age structure | South Australia |
| Age-standardised mortality rate in South Australia | 1.9 times higher than that of New South Wales and Queensland |
| State with the highest number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths by suicide | New South Wales |
| Lowest number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths by suicide | South Australia |
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What You'll Learn
Northern Territory has the highest rate of suicide
Suicide is a significant issue in Australia, with the country ranking 10th globally for its suicide rate. While various factors influence suicide rates across different demographics, data reveals that the Northern Territory (NT) consistently has the highest rate of suicide among all states and territories.
According to statistics, the Northern Territory recorded an age-standardised suicide rate of 20.5 deaths per 100,000 people, significantly higher than other regions. This rate is nearly double that of some states, highlighting a critical issue within the territory. The data also reveals that the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory were the only regions to experience an increase in suicides between 2019 and 2020, while other states saw a decrease.
The high suicide rate in the Northern Territory is concerning, particularly when considering the impact on families, communities, and vulnerable populations. Indigenous Australians, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, face a heightened risk of suicide, with the Kimberley, Northern Territory, and far north Queensland regions exhibiting some of the highest rates worldwide. The median age of Indigenous Australians who died by suicide between 2019 and 2023 was 32.8 years, with three-quarters of those being male.
Various factors contribute to the elevated suicide rate in the Northern Territory. Regional areas in Australia consistently report higher suicide rates than capital cities, with psychosocial risk factors being the most commonly reported. Unemployment is another critical factor, particularly for men, as longer periods of unemployment correlate with higher suicide rates in certain age groups. Additionally, members of the LGBTIQ+ community report suicide attempts at a rate ten times higher than the general Australian population, underscoring the need for targeted support and intervention.
Addressing the high suicide rate in the Northern Territory requires a comprehensive approach. Strategies may include improving mental health services, promoting help-seeking behaviours, and enhancing support for at-risk groups such as Indigenous Australians and the LGBTIQ+ community. By recognising the unique challenges faced by the Northern Territory, targeted interventions can be implemented to reduce suicide rates and save lives.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are disproportionately affected
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Suicide rates are higher in regional Australia
Suicide rates in Australia have revealed a concerning trend, with the Northern Territory (NT) reporting the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide at 20.5 per 100,000 people. However, when examining the broader geographical divide, it becomes evident that suicide rates are notably higher in regional Australia compared to metropolitan centres. This disparity is evident in the statistics, with 15.7 deaths per 100,000 people outside capital cities, in contrast to 10.3 deaths per 100,000 people in capital cities.
Several factors contribute to the elevated suicide rates in regional Australia. One significant aspect is the unique challenges faced by individuals in these areas due to their geographic isolation. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare acknowledges that regional Australians often experience poorer health and welfare outcomes compared to their metropolitan counterparts. This isolation can lead to increased social isolation, particularly among young men, which is a known risk factor for suicide. Additionally, the higher availability and use of firearms in rural areas can contribute to the higher suicide rates, as seen in the higher suicide rates among males in rural settings.
Furthermore, the mental health crisis in regional Australia extends beyond suicide to encompass issues such as housing, poverty, education, gender-based violence, and substance abuse. The lack of timely access to adequate mental health services exacerbates the situation, often leaving family members struggling to find support. While grassroots organisations and community initiatives play a crucial role in addressing these issues, better funding and integration of mental health services are necessary to provide comprehensive support.
The impact of unemployment on suicide rates is also evident in regional areas. Studies indicate a positive correlation between the duration of low employment and suicide rates among men, particularly in the age groups of 25-34 and 55-64 years. This correlation underscores the importance of addressing socioeconomic challenges in regional Australia to mitigate the risk of suicide.
To summarise, suicide rates in regional Australia are significantly higher than in metropolitan areas, influenced by various factors such as geographic isolation, socioeconomic challenges, and limited access to mental health services. Addressing these complex issues requires a multifaceted approach that includes community initiatives, improved funding, and integrated support systems to effectively reduce suicide rates and promote mental well-being in regional Australia.
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Males are more at risk than females
In Australia, males are three times more likely to die by suicide than 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. This disparity is not a new phenomenon; in 2012, the ratio of male to female suicides stood at 3:1. Since 2003, age-standardised rates of suicide have been relatively stable for females across their lifespan, while for males, there have been notable fluctuations. For young adult men, there have been declines of between 5 and 8 deaths per 100,000, but for middle-aged men, there have been increases of between 4 and 7 deaths per 100,000. Middle and older-aged men continue to die by suicide at rates 4-6 times greater than females on average and 2-3 times greater than teenage males.
There are several factors that contribute to the higher rate of male suicide in Australia. One factor is the strong correlation between male suicide and unemployment. Studies have shown that the longer the period of low employment, the higher the rate of suicides in men aged 25-34 and 55-64. Another factor is the accessibility and lethality of suicide methods. In rural areas, for example, the easy accessibility of firearms may contribute to the higher rate of male suicide. Additionally, males are more likely to use more lethal means to end their lives, which may explain why, despite females being more likely to deliberately injure themselves, male suicide rates remain significantly higher.
The high rate of male suicide in Australia has a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44, and it is estimated that over 10 million Australian adults know someone who has died by suicide. To address this issue, organisations like Lifeline Australia, the country's largest suicide prevention service provider, offer crisis support and resources to those in need.
While the rate of suicide in Australian adolescents has decreased overall, certain groups of young adults, including Indigenous, rural, and refugee youth, remain at an increased risk of dying by suicide. Among these groups, young males tend to be more at risk than young females. This disparity underscores the urgent need for effective suicide prevention measures and support services that cater to the unique needs of these at-risk groups.
Overall, the disproportionately high rate of male suicide in Australia is a complex issue with devastating consequences. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that considers the various factors contributing to male suicide, the unique needs of at-risk groups, and the provision of accessible and effective support services.
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LGBTIQ+ community members are at a higher risk
As of June 30, 2025, a search for "which Australian state has the highest suicide rate?" reveals no specific information about suicide rates in Australia broken down by state. However, it is well-known and concerning that the country has a high suicide rate overall, and certain groups are disproportionately affected, including the LGBTIQ+ community.
Members of the LGBTIQ+ community in Australia face unique challenges that can impact their mental health and well-being, putting them at a higher risk of suicide. According to various studies and reports, LGBTIQ+ individuals are more likely to experience discrimination, rejection, and isolation, which can lead to a higher prevalence of mental health issues and suicidal ideation. This community faces unique challenges, including discrimination, rejection, and isolation, which contribute to a higher risk. Acceptance and support from family and peers are critical protective factors, but many LGBTIQ+ individuals face rejection, bullying, and social isolation, increasing their risk of self-harm and suicide.
The rejection and discrimination LGBTIQ+ individuals often face can lead to internalized homophobia and a sense of isolation. This can result in higher rates of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, all of which are risk factors for suicide. Additionally, LGBTIQ+ individuals may face specific challenges, such as gender dysphoria or the difficulties of coming out in a conservative or unsupportive environment, adding to the stress and mental health risks.
To make matters worse, the very places LGBTIQ+ individuals might turn to for support may not always be safe or welcoming. Support services and mental health resources may not always cater to the unique needs of this community, and some may fear discrimination or insensitivity when seeking help. This can create a barrier to accessing the very support that could be lifesaving. Furthermore, the intersection of multiple forms of discrimination, such as homophobia and transphobia, with other factors like racism or ableism, can further compound the risk for individuals with multiple marginalized identities.
It is imperative that targeted prevention strategies and support services are made available to the LGBTIQ+ community. This includes ensuring mental health professionals are trained to understand and address the specific challenges faced by LGBTIQ+ individuals. Safe and supportive spaces, peer support groups, and tailored mental health services can all help reduce the risk and provide much-needed assistance to vulnerable community members.
By raising awareness, providing education, and fostering acceptance, we can help create an environment where all members of the LGBTIQ+ community feel valued and supported, reducing the risk of suicide and improving overall well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
When looking at State and Territory data, NT (Northern Territory) had the highest age-standardised rate of deaths by suicide at 20 per 100,000. However, when adjusted for population size and age structure, South Australia had the highest rate of death from suicide (crude and age-standardised).
Suicide prevention researcher Gerry Georgatos has found that suicide rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are among the highest in the world, particularly in the Kimberley, Northern Territory, and far north Queensland regions. Other factors that contribute to Australia's high suicide rate include unemployment, depression, and access to firearms.
Suicide Prevention Australia and Lifeline Australia are two organisations dedicated to suicide prevention and providing support for those affected by suicide. Additionally, the National Health and Medical Research's Working Group was founded in 1992 to examine suicide prevention initiatives in the country.
