The Indigenous community of Yulga Jinna in Western Australia is using music and song to engage at-risk youth and prevent suicide, with the self-managed community recording zero suicides since it was established in 1992.
Youth Focus coordinator Robert Binsiar, who helps run the program, says art and music are foundations of Aboriginal culture which can help young people express themselves and address issues relating to intergenerational trauma.
Youth Focus manager Delroy Bergsma says suicide is the biggest killer of young people in WA and service providers need to involve local communities in planning and delivering prevention programs.