The Miles Government has today released the Queensland Trauma Strategy, a whole-of-government, whole-of-community plan to guide continued reform in preventing and responding to trauma.
Approximately 75 per cent of Australian adults have experienced at least one potentially traumatic event in their lifetime.
The experience of trauma can lead to a range of mental health challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, problematic alcohol and other drugs use and suicidal distress.
That's why the Miles Government is committed to providing better supports for people who experience trauma and traumatic events, including physical and sexual abuse, domestic and family violence, adverse childhood experiences, natural disasters, and work-related trauma.
The strategy highlights the importance of a comprehensive and shared approach across all tiers of government and the community, and it aims to create a nurturing and resilient Queensland where prevention and early support are prioritised.
The Queensland Trauma Strategy has been informed by an extensive consultation process across sectors, government and non-government organisations, peak bodies, people and carers with lived and living experience of trauma, and with the community.
The release of the strategy fulfills a Queensland Government commitment under Recommendation 6 of the Queensland Mental Health Select Committee Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders and is an action of Shifting minds: The Queensland Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs and Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan 2023-2028.
As stated by Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman:
"We know that around three in four Australian adults have experienced a traumatic event at some point in their lives.
"These events can have devastating and long-lasting impacts peoples' physical and mental health, social and emotional wellbeing, and their ability to function.
"Queenslanders are extremely resilient, but we know that challenges like the pandemic, natural disasters and the rising cost of living are impacting their mental health and wellbeing.
"Our new strategy sets out our vision to create a nurturing and resilient Queensland so that all Queenslanders seeking support can receive the trauma-informed and responsive care they deserve.
"This is part of the Miles Government's commitment to ensuring Queenslanders receive the right support, as early as possible, close to home."
As stated by Mr Ivan Frkovic, Commissioner, Queensland Mental Health Commission:
"We know that exposure to traumatic events, especially as children, increases a person's health risks long after the event, and it's essential to deliver effective support, care and treatment.
"A whole-of-system approach to trauma will enhance our ability to identify those people experiencing trauma and adversity, and provide early support, including for families, unpaid carers, and communities.
"The Queensland Trauma Strategy prioritises safety and trust, ensuring that every interaction and service provided is trauma informed.
"Efforts to reduce stigma and promote social inclusivity are key to the strategy, aiming to build a community where trauma is recognised and people feel connected and supported."
