The innovative mental health initiative, Live4Life, has achieved a significant milestone with over 10,000 individuals in the Macedon Ranges trained in evidence-based mental health education. This program, which began in 2010, aims to address rising concerns around anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicide among young people in rural communities.
Since its inception, Live4Life has equipped 9,292 young individuals with crucial mental health education, while an additional 864 adults have completed training in Youth Mental Health First Aid®. The program emphasizes a community-based approach, engaging schools and local organizations to create a robust support network for mental well-being.
Co-founder Pauline Neil first identified the need for such a program while working with the Shire Council in 2008. “Live4Life was designed with an awareness that rural areas require a whole-of-community approach, placing young people at the center of the process. We empower them with the tools to help themselves and others,” she explained.
The impact of Live4Life extends beyond training numbers. Participants, like Talon Gostelow, have shared transformative experiences through the program. “In my five years with Live4Life, I’ve grown from a Crew member to a Crew Champion. The program has taught me the immense value of prevention in our society,” he stated.
The success of Live4Life is reflected in broader community engagement. Across all participating communities, more than 33,500 young people and 3,331 adults have received mental health education, with 1,799 young individuals volunteering as mental health ambassadors. Additionally, 147 community members have been trained as instructors in Mental Health First Aid.
In celebrating this milestone, Bernard Galbally, CEO of Live4Life, highlighted the foresight of the Macedon Ranges Shire Council in launching the program. “The growth of Live4Life into 14 other local government areas exemplifies how local councils can drive generational change in youth mental health and suicide prevention,” he remarked.
Live4Life’s legacy continues to receive recognition at various levels. It was awarded the National Communities in Action Life Award from Suicide Prevention Australia last year and was acknowledged in the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System as a model for local organizations effecting change. The program is also featured on the Victorian Department of Education’s ‘Mental Health Menu,’ allowing schools to utilize funding effectively.
The initiative currently operates in local secondary schools including Gisborne Secondary, Sacred Heart College, and Braemar College, with assistance from organizations such as Sunbury Cobaw Community Health and Benetas Macedon Ranges Health. The Macedon Ranges Shire Council serves as the lead agency, ensuring collaboration among community stakeholders.
As Live4Life continues to expand its reach, its commitment to improving mental health support for young people remains steadfast, promising a positive impact not only in the Macedon Ranges but across Australia.
