Charlotte Walker (SA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

Recent research shows that nearly 40 per cent of young people deal with mental health experiences. That's almost one in two young people. That is why I would like to speak about an Australian organisation, Orygen   , the largest research and innovation centre of its kind anywhere in the world, dedicated solely to improving the mental wellbeing of young people. Orygen has become a global powerhouse in early intervention, creating programs and policies that are actually informed by young people, their families and those who support them. Orygen has built a team of more than 600 specialists, the biggest youth mental health workforce in the world, which uses cutting-edge research to translate into real-world solutions. They're not just treating illness; they're helping young people thrive. In 2023, 392 people lost their lives to suicide in Australia. Suicide is the leading cause of death among young Australians aged 15 to 25. Too many young people don't seek help, often because of stigma, cost or long wait times. Many turn to social media for support, a space that can both heal and harm.

Orygen's work helps us find that balance using evidence based research to reduce potential harm while preserving connection. Orygen's world leading suicide prevention unit, headed by Professor Jo Robinson, is tackling the complex social and emotional drivers of suicide in young Australians. Their chatsafe program, for example, teaches young people and their families how to safely talk about suicide online, and it's already reached millions worldwide. Today I want to thank the Orygen team for their leadership, their compassion and their relentless strive to make sure every young Australia has access to the care and mental health support they need.