In the middle of 2021, following an introduction from Sue Murray, Zero Suicide Institute of Australia (ZSIA), an informal exchange between two states began that has evolved into a dynamic and purposeful partnership built on trust, friendship, and a shared commitment to suicide prevention. By “stealing” — or more accurately, collaborating, adopting, adapting, and evolving — each other’s ideas, tools, and strategies, we have avoided duplication, accelerated innovation, and created a stronger, more consistent and united approach, as truly united voices working toward brighter futures.
This presentation will share our joint journey — the wins, the challenges, and the lessons learned. We collaborated across state lines, utilising the voices of those with lived experience to further develop the work. We will showcase how we shared our approaches and resources, supported cross-border problem solving and built a shared culture of learning, to transform suicide prevention efforts across our states.
We will describe how South Australia Health and NSW Health assisted each other in the development and implementation of our statewide suicide prevention pathways. Through reciprocal site visits, joint workshops, and regular knowledge exchanges, we have developed and aligned resources and supported each other to address gaps and barriers across jurisdictions. This has resulted in new models of practice, streamlined processes, and stronger continuity of care providing consistency across jurisdictions in caring for people with suicidality.
Along the way, we have discovered that collaboration is not just about systems and structures, but about relationships. The friendships and professional trust that has developed between our teams has been the foundation for innovation, resilience, and honest problem-solving. Together, we have learned that generosity, humour, and the willingness to “steal” good ideas openly are as important as policy and planning in driving change.
Through stories of success (and a few lessons learned along the way), we will explore the value of professional generosity, the power of united voices, and the tangible benefits of sustained collaboration in building brighter futures. Delegates will leave with inspiration and practical strategies to spark their own cross-border alliances — proof that when it comes to saving lives, the best ideas are worth sharing.
Takeaway Messages