New partnership offers free suicide prevention training for aged care students

Up to 50 students enrolled in eligible aged care-related qualifications will have access to the Respond to People in Crisis and at Risk of Suicide skill set (SSCHC0011) at no cost.

The study module aims to equip students with the skills and confidence needed to recognise and respond to signs of distress and suicidal risk in older people.

Older Queenslanders are disproportionately impacted by suicide, with Queenslanders over 65 accounting for almost 20 per cent of suspected suicides in 2023, particularly in regional and remote areas.

Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Ivan Frkovic said the opportunity will equip the state's future aged care workforce with the practical skills needed to support vulnerable older Queenslanders at risk of suicide.

“By embedding suicide prevention training early in students’ learning journey, we’re helping to build long-term capability to respond with compassion and confidence," he said.

“The partnership with TAFE Queensland and Council on the Ageing Queensland will strengthen supports for a group often overlooked in suicide prevention efforts.”

The course will be delivered online for two-hours a week, over eight weeks. The units of study are nationally accredited and may count toward further qualifications.

The training initiative is funded by the Queensland Mental Health Commission on behalf of the Queensland Government and is being delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland and Council on the Ageing Queensland (COTA Queensland).

TAFE Queensland General Manager (East Coast region) Mark Reilly said the state's training provider is committed to preparing students, not just with technical skills, but with the knowledge to care for people's overall wellbeing.

"The contributions our students make to the community are invaluable, but this training will support participants to expand that impact and offer greater support to those at their most vulnerable," Mr Reilly said.

Chief Executive Officer for COTA Queensland, Darren Young said he welcomes this initiative as a vital step towards reducing stigma and improving mental wellbeing for older Queenslanders.

"Older people have a right to feel connected, seen and supported, especially during times of distress," Mr Young said.

“This training helps future aged care workers develop the skills and empathy to recognise when someone may be struggling, and to respond in a way that could be life changing.To reduce barriers to participation, up to 50 eligible students may also be able to claim reimbursement for study-related costs needed to support their learning, up to a maximum of $190."

The initiative addresses an action in Queensland’s Every life suicide prevention plan that seeks to strengthen support and deliver tailored responses to people disproportionately impacted by suicide.