Mental Health Minister and Member for Eyre Dr Graham Jacobs said that Esperance had a peak of 13 suicides in 1999 however the number has been less since then.

But he said that was not a reason for not doing anything.

“Suicide numbers have subsided but that does not mean that we have to stop worrying,” he said.

“I don’t know if we can ever get it down to zero but if this helps at least one person than it’s worth it.”

WA Suicide Prevention Strategy 2009-2013 was launched as a State-wide approach to suicide prevention.

“More Australians suicide each year than are killed on our roads,” Dr Jacobs said.

The Minister said the strategy placed an emphasis on young people and people in regional parts of WA.

“Suicide rates are often higher in rural and remote areas,” Dr Jacobs said.

The strategy will support the work of individuals, communities and agencies to reduce suicide and set the framework for the development of future WA suicide prevention initiatives.

Ministerial Council for Suicide Prevention will have new responsibilities to oversee suicide prevention initiatives and to identify communities requiring more support.

A non-government organisation would be appointed to implement the strategy to increase public awareness.

Dr Jacobs hopes that about 50 centres will be established around the state.

“We are asking people to put their hands up and tell us if they need a centre in their area,” he said.

Esperance Community Mental Health team leader, Andrew Quayle, said anything that helps with suicide awareness is a positive step.

“In the past 12 months that I have been here, there have been no deaths related to suicide.

“I think it is still a taboo subject but hopefully with more awareness we can reduce this,” Mr Quayle said.