Enhancing Tasmania's response to suicide

Tasmanians are being invited to help shape our approach to suicide prevention, with public consultation now open on the proposed Suicide Prevention Act.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said the proposed legislation would build on more than a decade of strengthened suicide prevention efforts across Tasmania.

"Every life lost to suicide is one too many, and we remain committed to reducing the devastating impact suicide has on individuals, families and communities," Minister Archer said.

"Over the past decade, Tasmania has strengthened its approach to suicide prevention through sustained investment, strong leadership across the community and service sectors, greater inclusion of lived and living experience voices, and a growing evidence base.

"The proposed Suicide Prevention Act seeks to build on these foundations by embedding suicide prevention as an enduring priority for Tasmania and supporting a coordinated, long-term approach across government, services and communities.

"The legislation is being carefully developed with Tasmanians and is informed by evidence, lived and living experience, and engagement across government and community sectors.

"Preventing suicide is complex, and meaningful engagement is essential to ensuring the legislation reflects the needs, experiences and aspirations of the people and communities it is intended to support."

The Tasmanian Government is inviting feedback from stakeholders, service providers, consumers, carers and community members on the proposed legislation.

Minister Archer encouraged Tasmanians to review the consultation materials and share their views.

"This is an important opportunity for Tasmanians to help shape legislation that will guide and strengthen our approach to suicide prevention for years to come," Minister Archer said.

“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are delivering for Tasmanians.”

Public consultation is open until 5pm AEDT on Friday, 18 December 2026.

Read the discussion paper and draft legislation here.

If this topic raises concerns for you or someone you know, support is available.

Contact Access Mental Health on 1800 332 388 or Lifeline's 24-hour crisis support service on 13 11 14. If there is an immediate risk to life, call Triple Zero (000).