Firstly, I would like to acknowledge that seven people have lost their lives and others have been seriously injured in the most tragic of circumstances and I extend my deepest sympathies to them, their families and loved ones.
We also know that there can be a longer-term impact for people who have experienced traumatic events such as this, including police, ambulance and security officers.
I also recognise that the wider community has been affected and that we all experience traumatic events in different ways. It’s important if you are feeling anxious or distressed by the events to please reach out to those around you, and know that if you need additional support, there are services available.
It’s also important at this time to acknowledge the profound effect that the last few days may have had on those with lived experience of mental health challenges, and their families, carers and friends.
We must be mindful that the terrible actions of one person do not cloud our perception of people living with mental illness generally. The evidence tells us that most people living with severe and persistent mental illness, like schizophrenia, are not violent, manage their symptoms effectively, and access the treatment and supports they may need.
It is crucial that people experiencing mental health challenges are supported to stay in contact with, and not become disengaged from health services – both private and public.
We must also recognise that people living with severe and persistent mental illness have needs beyond treatment services, such as access to housing, education and employment, as well as strong social support and meaningful connections.
We have seen significant investment in Queensland of $1.645 billion over five years across the range of service needs, including more intensive supports for people living with severe and complex mental illness. The Commission has also been working for some time on options to increase access to supportive housing for people living with mental ill-health.
Finally, I’d like to point to Mindframe’s recent statement around safe and sensitive reporting, including self-care for media, and support services for people to reach out and chat to someone.
Queensland Mental Health Access Line 1300 642 255
Lifeline 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue 1300 22 46 36
MensLine Australia 1300 78 99 78
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
1800 Respect 1800 737 732
13 YARN - 13 92 76 - for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
Arafmi 1300 554 660
