As part of Mental Health month, our CEO Renée Coffey and Lee Knight, AKKF Director and Senior Lecturer in Forensic Mental Health at the University of NSW, have been actively engaging in discussions with numerous media outlets regarding the urgent need for increased investment in early intervention mental health services across Australia. Emphasising the positive impact of Kookaburra Kids programs on young individuals affected by family mental illness. Together they highlighted the critical importance of securing adequate funding.

Recent data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics sheds light on a concerning trend. In 2022, a total of 3249 lives were lost to suicide in Australia, with a 2.6% increase in male suicide rates from the previous year. These alarming figures underscore the pressing need for comprehensive mental health support and intervention.

During their interviews, attention was drawn to a crucial global study conducted by Australia’s Curtin University. The study revealed a 42% higher risk of depression among children whose father’s were struggling with depression. This compelling evidence backs up the imperative to invest in programs that promote enhanced mental health strategies from an early age.

If you’re interested in hearing insights on this critical issue, you can listen to them speak online to various media outlets here.

Ultra 106.5 – Hobart – Interview with Renee Coffey

https://soundcloud.com/ultra1065fm/mhw-kookaburra-kids-foundation.

Vision Australia Radio – Adelaide – Interview with Renee Coffey

https://clipchamp.com/watch/DHYi9YiRgZm

2ST- NSW South Coast – Interview with Renee Coffey

2GB Interview – Lee Knight – Click here to listen.

If your organisation is keen on supporting Australian kids and promoting mental health education, we invite you to explore opportunities to engage with us on our website: https://kookaburrakids.org.au/