AFL Masters Victorian Metropolitan Football League

Suicide is the leading cause of death among Australians aged between 15 and 44. It deeply affects friends, families and communities.

More than 3000 Australians end their lives each year — this is about 8 people a day.

The suicide rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was approximately twice that of non-Indigenous Australians.

Suicide rates for males and females differ considerably with males consistently accounting for approximately three-quarters of suicide deaths.

Most people these days have been touched personally by suicide. Through this project, we wanted to take the opportunity to check in with our young people and to give them a platform to talk about this in a safe space.

Through community conversations, our mob developed key messages.

  • You are not alone
  • Your feelings are valid
  • You are loved
  • Talk to someone who will listen
  • Talk to your mob
  • You don’t have to cope alone

Our young people said they need a voice; they need their feelings acknowledged and validated. Their message is that you are not alone. Our message is there is always help.
Here is our Message, for young and old!