In response to the Australian Government's increased investment in community-based suicide prevention initiatives, Brisbane South PHN (Primary Health Network) has been allocated funding specifically dedicated to Targeted Regional Initiatives for Suicide Prevention. This funding aims to address the escalating rates of suicide, particularly within Brisbane South PHN, which has witnessed a distressing surge in suicides compared to other regions in Queensland.

The Suicide Prevention Evidence Base Report highlights the Pasifika and Maori communities residing in the Brisbane South PHN region as a priority group. Due to factors including acculturative stress, socio-economic disadvantage and loss of cultural identity, Pasifika and Maori communities face disproportionately higher risks of mental health challenges and suicide, highlighting the need for tailored interventions that cater to the specific needs of the community.

This procurement initiative is designed to facilitate the development and implementation of non-clinical solutions, curated through a co-design process which took place from October 2023-November 2023 involving representatives from local Pasifika and Maori communities and other key stakeholders. It aims to harness their insights, lived experiences, and cultural nuances to create effective, community-driven strategies to prevent suicides within their respective communities.

This procurement also aligns well with multiple actions and objectives in the Pasifika and Maori Health and Wellbeing Strategic Framework and Action Plan for Brisbane South 2020-2025.