The Australian Bureau of Statistics data reflects causes of death from 2015, including the official suicide death data for the country.

The 2015 data indicated 3027 people died by suicide.

This is the first time the numbers have exceeded 3000.

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the figures and associated impacts are even worse. The data indicates they are twice as likely to die by suicide than non-Indigenous Australians, with concerning rates in younger age groups.

Hunter Institute of Mental Health director Jaelea Skehan said we needed to remember that behind the data released were people, families and communities, “many of whom have been struggling with the impact of multiple losses”.

“When looking for trends in the data, it is important to look at rates rather than numbers. But, with the number of suicide deaths now over 3,000 per year that represents a distressing number of individuals, families and communities impacted by suicide each year in Australia,” she said

“We know from recent research conducted by Suicide Prevention Australia that many Australians have been impacted by suicide, with the ongoing effect of each death or suicide attempt affecting many lives for many years.”

There has been an increase in suicide rates and numbers of deaths over the past three years.

Ms Skehan said the data highlighted suicide was an issue which affected all age groups.

“We have had a lot of focus and attention on youth suicide in this country, which is always important, but the 2014 and 2015 data is a reminder that suicide prevention activity across the lifespan needs to be prioritised, with the highest rates of suicide being in men over 85 years followed by men in their 30s, 40s and 50s,” she said.

“The figures should not sit well with anyone and highlight the need for not only reform, but more resources in suicide prevention.”

Mindframe National Media Initiative Manager Marc Bryant said it was essential that we talked about suicide and its impacts, but we needed to ensure the conversations were safe, helpful and informed.

“It is really important as we have these national debates and conversations online, and in the media today, that we do so in a safe and responsible way,” he said 

“This will provide an opportunity to foster conversations that empower people to respond to those who are vulnerable and encourage them to reach out, which can also break down stigma, particularly among men, so that they reach out for help early.

“Online resources such as Conversations Matter have been developed to help guide professionals and communities in having these difficult conversations, to ensure that people feel supported to have safe and effective discussions about suicide.”

Beyondblue chairman Jeff Kennett AC said the figures had to stop people in their tracks.

“The 2015 total is two and a half times the national road toll and six times the number of Australian lives lost in the entire Vietnam War,” he said.

“It is a national disgrace requiring a national response.”

Mr Kennett said people decided to take their own lives when they believed all hope was lost and felt that their families would be better off without them.

“No family is better off for having lost a loved-one,” Mr Kennett said.

“It may not be easy to ask someone whether they are thinking about suicide, but you shouldn’t let that stop you.

“Suicide is preventable.”

For more information on the statistics, visit http://bit.ly/1LNmVtv. 

For support 24/7, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.

For more information and practical tips on how to talk about suicide, visit www.conversationsmatter.com.au.