March 2025

Relationships Australia Tasmania today announced the winners of the 20th annual Tasmanian LiFE Awards, marking two decades of recognising exceptional contributions to suicide prevention across the state.

CEO of Relationships Australia Tasmania Dr Michael Kelly said the LiFE Awards recognise the passion and commitment to suicide prevention that is displayed by Tasmanians across the state.

“This year we celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Tasmanian LiFE Awards – an incredible milestone that highlights the significant and positive work being done by communities across Tasmania to prevent suicide” Dr Kelly said.

“I’ve been involved in the LiFE Awards since 2013 and each year I’ve continued to be inspired by the level of care, innovation and commitment of so many Tasmanians who contribute so much to reducing the impact of suicide. The work does not go unnoticed and makes sure that individuals, groups, communities and workplaces receive the best possible support. Every action, big or small makes a difference,” said Dr Kelly

A total of 28 nominations were received from across the state, highlighting a wide range of initiatives, from grassroots projects to local support services.

The winners of the LiFE Awards were announced last night during a ceremony at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston. The event brought together community members and service providers, serving as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the impactful work in the suicide prevention space undertaken by individuals and organisations. 

There are five LiFE Awards presented each year; the winners are:

Mental Health Council of Tasmania
Priority Populations Contribution to Suicide Prevention
NOTE: There are joint winners in this category

Men’s Resources Tasmania – Building Pathways Coaching and Mentoring Program
The Building Pathways program by Men’s Resources Tasmania provides coaching and mentoring for men, particularly those at risk or engaged with the correctional system, helping them transition from prison and improve mental health. The initiative has proven successful in building confidence and creating social connections in men.

Home Base – Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative
The Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative (HASI) provides support to individuals with mental ill-health at risk of homelessness, helping them maintain stable housing and reducing the risk of suicide. By offering tailored psychosocial support and collaborating with stakeholders, HASI improves mental health outcomes, housing stability, and reduces the pressure on acute mental health services, while aiming for expansion to address the unmet need for psychosocial support in Tasmania.

Lifeline Tasmania
Communities in Action for Suicide Prevention LiFE Award

The Lounge (New Mornings)
The Lounge is a non-clinical support program providing a safe space for women facing mental ill-health, grief, and intellectual disabilities. Operating twice weekly, it offers activities like crafts, excursions, and shared refreshments to increase social connection and minimise isolation. The program works with with external service providers, providing warm referrals to specialised care when needed. Focused on empowering women, The Lounge helps participants build confidence, recognise their strengths and their full potential, promoting a sense of belonging and community among those facing life’s challenges.

SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY
Outstanding Contribution to Suicide Prevention LiFE Award

Kylie Delaney
Kylie has dedicated 18 years to the mental health sector, particularly focusing on complex PTSD and suicide prevention in Tasmania. Through her work at Wellways, community networking, and initiatives like her large CPTSD Facebook group and neurodiverse support group, she fosters connection, support, and empowerment. Kylie actively collaborates with services like Roses in the Ocean and the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Network, using her lived experience to improve mental health services and reduce barriers. Her ongoing commitment, including personal counselling and advocacy, has made a measurable impact on individuals’ lives, preventing suicide and promoting mental well-being across her community.

Newport & Wildman
Innovative Practice and Research Award

A Tasmanian Lifeline
A Tasmanian Lifeline (ATL) began as a COVID-19 response to support isolated older Tasmanians and has since evolved into a vital, statewide telephone service offering psychosocial and emotional support for all ages. Integrated into the State Government’s Suicide Prevention Strategy, ATL provides early intervention by addressing psychosocial factors contributing to suicidality. Focusing on building resilience and empowering callers, ATL helps individuals improve coping mechanisms and manage their mental and emotional health through a strength-based approach.

TasNetworks
Best Practice in Suicide Prevention by a Workplace

Skretting Australia
In response to a community tragedy, Skretting Australia partnered with Rural Alive and Well (RAW) and Converge International to provide vital mental health support and training, including mental health first aid and Accidental Counsellor training for staff. They also developed a Community Action Plan for Suicide Prevention in collaboration with Relationships Australia Tasmania, aimed at reducing stigma and enhancing mental health literacy within the workplace.

Special Note: Dr. Michael Kelly, Michelle Ewington, and winners of the 2025 Tasmanian LiFE Awards, Annie King and Trista Abbott from The Lounge (New Mornings), Emily Clifford and Craig Mitchell from Home Base – HASI and Kylie Delaney will be available for media interview.

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Media Contact: A.Mark Thomas, M&M Communications, 0422 006 732

About Relationships Australia Tasmania

Relationships Australia Tasmania is a not-for-profit whose purpose is to create a connected and respectful Tasmania.  We believe in the power of connection, and support Tasmanians to build individual resilience, respectful relationships and connection to communities.

Alongside general counselling, RA Tas offers support to Tasmanians through a range of specialist teams in Hobart, Launceston and Devonport.

More information about the services and support we offer can be found on our website www.tas.relationships.com.au