Since 2017, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples mental health and SEWB has been a national priority(1). These national developments include all Commonwealth and States/Territory Governments. Multiple initiatives are progressing against the national priority.

This symposium highlights a selection of services committed to improving responses designed to address these needs through organisational commitments and projects. The symposium includes work undertaken by three organisations in online resource development, digital initiatives, and postvention responses. The focus of this work is designed to embed SEWB into the usual practices including online spaces of organisations.

These collective initiatives are important. Online initiatives enable 24/7 access to information and care opportunities. While postvention services support families and communities following tragic circumstances and an important initiative to future suicide prevention developments. Each organisation will outline their work, processes and partnership developments related to these important initiatives.

The audience will gain valuable information on the practical approaches undertaken in the development of these initiatives and the value to participants has been and expected to be into the future, including their challenges of mental health and postvention care. The presentations explore ‘celebrating difference while finding the common ground’.

(1) 5th National Mental Health Plan, 2017
National Agreement on Closing the Gap, 2020
National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreements, 2022.



Opening & Facilitator
Tom Brideson, Deputy Commissioner MHC, NSW

Topic 1 (20 mins): WellMob: Online resource development for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples SEWB
Speaker: David Edwards, Director, WellMob Project, University of Sydney

Topic 2 (20 mins): Development of online platforms to support the SEWB of First Nations Peoples
Speakers: Rachel Green and Nathan Deaves, CEO and Manager SEWB, Sane Australia

Topic 3 (20 Mins): Postvention and support following unexpected fatal incidents for Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Speaker: Charmaine Hull, Clinical Director, Thirrilli

Questions & Discussion (30 mins)
Tom Brideson