Women's Health in the South East (WHISE) welcomes the Victorian Government's Suicide Prevention and Response Strategy (2024-2034) and the Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy (2024-2031). While these represent important progress, WHISE urges the government to integrate a gender-transformative approach that acknowledges the profound impact of gender inequality on mental health and wellbeing.
"It is essential that the unique experiences and challenges faced by women and marginalised groups are properly addressed to ensure these strategies are truly effective," said Kit McMahon, CEO of WHISE.
WHISE is pleased to see the emphasis on intersectionality in the Suicide Prevention Strategy. "It's crucial for the sector to understand that it is not identity itself, but the negative experiences of sexism and gender inequality, along with other oppressions, that contribute to this crisis," said Zoe Francis, Strategic Policy & Advocacy Advisor at WHISE.
"We commend the strategy's inclusion of lived and living experiences, the commitment to system-wide reform, and the prioritisation of First Nations and LGBTIQ+ led initiatives. This approach is a positive step forward, but we must ensure the root causes of suicide for marginalised communities are addressed," Francis added.
WHISE also welcomes the recognition of intimate partner violence (IPV) as a factor in suicide. However, there are concerns about whether the strategy fully addresses both the victimisation and perpetration of IPV and family violence. "Addressing both aspects is crucial for a holistic approach that supports victims while tackling the root causes of violence, ultimately contributing to reduced suicide rates," said Francis.
Despite these positive aspects, WHISE is disappointed by the lack of dedicated consultations with women during the strategy's development. "A clear focus on the sex and gendered determinants is essential. The distinction between sex and gender, and their impact, should not be conflated," said Francis.
WHISE acknowledges the commitment to understanding gendered drivers of suicide but stresses the need for action. "We already have a strong evidence base on this. What we need now is a deeply gender-transformative, upstream approach that reimagines the mental health system and addresses systemic inequalities," said Francis.
Similarly, WHISE finds the Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy lacking in addressing the gendered dimensions of mental health. "We are disappointed there is no mention of gender stereotypes or violence against women in the prevention measures," said Natalie Opasinis, WHISE's Women's Health and Engagement Officer.
Opasinis acknowledged the recognition of the "thin ideal" and weight stigma as risk factors for developing eating disorders, but stressed, "Gender inequality and societal pressures play a significant role in the development of eating disorders. These factors must be addressed to create a more comprehensive strategy."
WHISE emphasises the need for responses to eating disorders that recognise gender inequality as a driver. "Without addressing root causes like gender stereotypes and societal pressures, we risk missing the opportunity to prevent eating disorders before they develop," said Opasinis.
WHISE remains committed to working with the government to ensure these strategies are effective and inclusive. "Only through a gender-responsive, intersectional approach can we create meaningful change that improves mental health outcomes for all Victorians," said McMahon.
Read the full statement on our website
