The Suicide Prevention Bill 2025 has passed NSW Parliament, marking the first time in the state’s history that suicide prevention has been written into law.
NSW now joins a handful of countries around the world in adopting a world-leading legislative model that makes every arm of government accountable for preventing suicide.
In 2024, 951 people in NSW were lost to suicide, making it the leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 44.
“This is historic. For the first time, NSW has suicide prevention written into law, making every part of government accountable for saving lives. It is a world-leading approach and one of the most significant reforms in our history,” said Minister for Mental Health, Rose Jackson.
“Every life lost to suicide is one too many. This legislation delivers a united, evidence-based response that puts lived experience and Aboriginal voices at the centre of prevention.”
“By passing this Bill we are honouring our election commitment and driving a cultural shift across government. No longer can suicide prevention be left to the health system alone. It is now everyone’s responsibility.”
“Today marks R U OK? Day I urge people to check in with their loved ones. A simple conversation can be life changing. It might be the connection someone needs to feel seen, supported and safe.”
The Bills includes:
- A Statewide strategy: A mandatory suicide prevention plan led by the NSW Mental Health Commission and shaped by lived experience.
- Agency action plans: Every government department, including NSW Police, will be required to develop their own suicide prevention plan with rollout from 2027.
- Advisory councils: Two new advisory bodies, the NSW Suicide Prevention Council and the NSW Aboriginal Suicide Prevention Council, bringing together lived-experience voices, Aboriginal leaders, experts and government.
- Monitoring system: The NSW Suicide Monitoring System enshrined in law, ensuring transparent and ongoing reporting of suspected and confirmed suicides to inform policy and funding.
Mental Health Commissioner of NSW, Jennifer Black said the commission welcomed the passage of the landmark legislation.
“The new functions for the Commission – leading statewide plans and supporting new advisory councils – underline that suicide prevention is a key priority for government, and highlight the importance of coordinated action across government and the community to save lives,” said Ms Black.
“The Commission is committed to delivering on these additional responsibilities with focus, diligence and collaboration.”
Suicide Prevention Australia CEO, Nieves Murray said the legislation enshrines the whole-of-government approach that has been long called for.
“This is a huge step forward for NSW and sets the standard for suicide prevention nationally. For the first time, suicide prevention is embedded in law in this state, making it clear that saving lives is a responsibility shared across every part of government.”
“Suicide prevention is not just a health issue — it is shaped by housing, education, employment, justice, and many other factors. By making every agency accountable, the NSW Government is showing real leadership and driving the kind of systemic change that will make a lasting difference.
“We commend Minister Jackson and the NSW Government for this landmark reform and urge other states and territories to follow their lead. This is exactly the type of action we need to reduce distress, save lives and build a safer future for our communities.”
RUOK? Day resources can be found here.
If life is in danger, call Triple Zero. If you or someone you know needs specialist mental health care, please call the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511. It is a free service operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week staffed by trained mental health professionals.
We encourage NSW residents affected by suicide to call StandBy: Support After Suicide on 1300 727 247 at any time for support – irrespective of how much time has passed since the tragedy occurred. This state-wide service provides a range of practical and emotional support to anyone who has been bereaved or impacted by suicide. For more information, visit: https://standbysupport.com.au/find-support/nswpss.
For further information on NSW Health’s suicide prevention programs visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/towardszerosuicides/Pages/default.aspx
