Four mental health programs will share $400,000 in federal funding for suicide prevention, including one for refugees which could extend to those in offshore detention.
Health Minister Greg Hunt announced the funding during his speech to the Victorian Liberal state council on Saturday at Moonee Valley Racecourse.
"There's not a person in this room, who through themselves, or their families, or their community hasn't been affected by mental health, or the tragedy of suicide. This is a national tragedy," Mr Hunt told the gathering of party faithful.
The four research projects will receive up to $100,000 to contribute to the evidence-base in suicide prevention and ultimately reduce the number of people lost to suicide each year.
One project is focusing on behavioural patterns at suicide hot spots, another will look at alcohol, depression and social isolation in older Australians and a third will examine hospital-to-community supports to prevent people attempting suicide again.
A fourth project will examine suicide prevention tools for asylum seekers and refugees.
When asked if the support will extend to those in offshore detention, Mr Hunt said the government was looking to support people "in all circumstances".
"Wherever people have mental health challenges, it's our task and it's our duty to assist and to protect them," he told reporters.
