Debate resumed, on motion byMr Georganas:

That the House:

(1)

notes the tragic loss of life to suicide which has taken an average of approximately 14 persons per 100,000 in Australia through most of the twentieth century—three quarters being male—and a disproportionately large number being in rural and regional areas;

(2)

notes the establishment of RU OK?, an important national initiative to raise awareness about suicide rates, the impact of suicide on our society, and how we can all help to prevent suicide by connecting with each other;

(3)

recognises and supports the inaugural RU OK? Day on 29 November 2009 that will bring Australians together to prevent suicide and raise the profile of organisations providing support for those affected by, or at risk of, suicide;

(4)

acknowledges that sector research shows that people at risk are helped by talking about their problems—that a single conversation could change a life; and

(5)

works to inspire and encourage all Australians to connect with friends and loved ones to prevent small problems from becoming big ones, by reaching out to anyone doing it tough and asking them ‘Are you OK?’.

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