A lifeline for South Australians experiencing suicidal distress has received a major funding increase, allowing peer-led support groups to continue their work across the state.
The Malinauskas Government has committed $94,000 to the Alternatives to Suicide (Alt2Su) program, delivered by the Lived Experience Leadership and Advocacy Network (LELAN). This marks a 71% rise from last year’s funding and comes after federal co-funding through the Adelaide and Country Primary Health Networks was withdrawn.
LELAN’s peer support groups offer safe spaces for people to share suicidal thoughts without judgement or intervention. Each 90-minute session brings together people who know what it’s like to face such distress, with the goal of mutual support and honest conversation. From July 2024 to June 2025, more than 830 people attended Alt2Su groups either in person or online, including dedicated sessions for LGBTIQIA+ participants.
The State Government stepped in following advocacy from Labor MP Nadia Clancy and the Suicide Prevention Council. The funding increase will enable continued group sessions, mentorship for facilitators, and the hiring of a peer project worker to help participants navigate support pathways.
Health Minister Chris Picton said the extra funding would ensure support continues for people who need it most. “Having access to support groups in person or online can help break down stigma and increase connection for people in suicide distress,” he said.
“Our Government is committed to helping all South Australians get the support they need and to not feel alone when things seem hopeless. Through sharing our experiences openly and honestly with one another, it is my hope that we can one day live in a world without suicide.”
Nadia Clancy, who has long backed the Alt2Su model, said the program exemplified what effective support should look like. “Lived experience is at the heart of effective suicide prevention, and LELAN’s Alt2Su program is evidence of that,” she said. “Thank you to the people who use their own experience to walk alongside others in their darkest moments, you are changing and saving lives.”
LELAN Chief Executive Officer Ellie Hodges said the program offers a rare space where people are met with compassion, not control. “Alt2Su offers a space where people can be honest about their experiences with suicide without fear of forced treatment or being told there is something wrong with them,” she said.
“Creating a community with people who ‘get it’ too is at the core of Alt2Su—this is the power of peer-led alternatives being available for people who otherwise might not reach out.”
Mental Health Commissioner Taimi Allan welcomed the commitment to peer-led support. “Peer-led spaces like Alt2Su don’t pathologise distress—they honour it and create room for people to hold pain, stay connected, and rediscover reasons to live,” she said.
Marina Bowshall, Chief Executive of Preventive Health SA, said the agency’s investment in the program reflects its commitment to community-led approaches. “Preventive Health SA is investing in evidence informed community suicide prevention initiatives to strengthen the support systems available for those who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or distress and building skills and connections within the community.”
LELAN, which received $800,000 in State Government support over four years as part of a broader election commitment, also delivers workshops across South Australia. This week, it held free sessions in Port Pirie focused on skills for supporting people in suicidal distress and amplifying the role of lived experience in shaping mental health policy and services.
Alt2Su was recently recognised with an Adelaide PHN Health Equity Award, acknowledging its efforts to improve access to care for vulnerable South Australians.
The funding announcement comes alongside the State Government’s 2025 Suicide Prevention Community Grants Program, which awards $5,000 to grassroots initiatives. So far, 14 community groups have received support, including some operating in regions affected by drought and the recent algal bloom. Applications remain open until 31 October.
Suicide remains the leading cause of death for South Australians aged 15 to 49. Advocates and experts agree that with early intervention and community-based support, many lives can be saved.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call triple zero (000) or Mental Health Triage on 13 14 65 (24/7 in SA).
Other support options include:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
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