THCFA to present innovative crisis support model at suicide conference

THCFA Director of Mental Health Services, Cassie Talbot and Community Engagement Officer Glenn Cotter.

May 19, 2025

Healthy Communities Foundation Australia’s Director of Mental Health Services, Cassie Talbot, and Community Engagement Officer, Glenn Cotter, have been invited to present THCFA's innovative crisis support model to National Suicide Prevention Conference 2025 in Perth this month.

Their presentation will explore how workforce development in rural and remote communities can enhance local capacity and extend the reach of suicide prevention services—contributing to the conference theme, Together Towards Tomorrow.

Titled Strengthening Rural Communities: A Collaborative Workforce Model for Crisis Support, the presentation will highlight the innovative approach of the Foundation’s Crisis Support Program, currently operating across rural and remote areas of New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria. The program integrates lived experience peer support workers and Aboriginal wellness workers under clinical supervision, fostering a holistic and culturally responsive approach to care.

“Rather than focusing solely on diagnoses or problems, the program supports the person as a whole, considering their social, emotional, and cultural wellbeing,” said Cassie.

“A key to the program’s success is its workforce development strategy, which focuses on upskilling local residents. By equipping community members with the knowledge and skills to deliver peer-led crisis support, we’re not only expanding the workforce - we’re strengthening communities.”

The inclusion of peer support and Aboriginal wellness workers enables the program to reach people who may have previously been underserved. These workers are deeply connected to their communities and are uniquely positioned to provide culturally safe and relevant care.

Cassie and Glenn will also discuss the program’s hybrid service model, which combines face-to-face and virtual support to ensure timely, personalised care - no matter where someone lives.

“This flexibility is critical to overcoming the barriers that often limit access to mental health support in rural and remote areas,” Cassie said.

By addressing the social determinants of health - including cultural safety, social isolation, and economic disadvantage - the program supports both individual and community wellbeing. At the same time, it creates meaningful employment opportunities and builds local capacity through a collaborative, sustainable model that balances clinical expertise with lived experience and local knowledge.

The National Suicide Prevention Conference 2025 will run from May 20-22.