A review of suicide statistics in Australia

Amr Elnour
James Harrison
Sophie Pointer

July 2009
Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
Canberra
AIHW cat. no. INJCAT 121

A review of suicide statistics in Australia is a detailed report on the statistical processes used to track national suicide rates. Suicide is a matter of considerable public interest and policy significance so reliable statistical information on suicide occurrence is important. This report examines in detail the current methodologies used to track suicide rates, identifying issues with the process of suicide reporting and the extent of, and reason for, any under-enumeration of suicide. Revised estimates are provided and the report provides advice for the future statistical monitoring of suicide and self harm in Australia. This report provides a unique insight into the limitations of current data on suicide rates.

The report is available from the AIHW website. Note: this link will open in a new window.