This presentation introduces culturally informed, co-developed communication resources to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to discuss suicide with the media in ways that are both empowering and safe for them, their families and others in the community.
The project was led by the Centre for Best Practice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention (CBPATSISP) with support from Everymind, and was guided by Aboriginal people with lived and living experience of suicide. This ensured that the voices and perspectives of First Nations people directly impacted by suicide were central. The wisdom gained from their experience is woven into ‘A First Nations guide for truth-telling about suicide’ and two supporting resources, fostering authentic representation and deeper understanding.
This presentation outlines the process for developing the resource, including its origins as a training program developed by Aboriginal media expert and advocate, Megan Krakouer. The project followed an Aboriginal Participatory Action Research (APAR) approach, emphasising self-determination and First Nations governance while adhering to NHMRC principles for ethical research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In line with this approach, people with lived experience had direct input into the project conceptualisation, from the training methodology to resource development with a focus on truth-telling.
The quick reference guide for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people speaking to the media is supplemented by additional resources (a longer form version as well as media guidance) to ensure a more holistic approach to supporting First Nations people is taken. This provides a wrap-around approach, offering information and support before, during and after truth-telling in the media.
This project contributes to ongoing efforts to enhance communication and reporting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide, emphasising the courage of people with lived and living experience in sharing their stories. It is hoped the resources will help to support truth-telling in a safe way, change the media’s narrative surrounding First Nations suicide, and to promote advocacy.