The latest set of data from the ABS shows 2522 people took their own life in 2013, compared with 2098 in 2004.

The 20 per cent increase in suicides over that period has prompted Lifeline Australia chairman John Brogden to declare suicide as a “national emergency”.

In the 10 years since he attempted to take his own life, Mr Brogden highlighted the 23,500 Australians who have died by suicide in that time.

“Every day, seven Australians die by suicide,” he said. 

“Furthermore, the number of suicides has increased by 20 per cent over the past ten years. What other cause of death would we allow such a significant increase without serious action?

“Over the same period, the number of motor vehicle deaths has reduced by 25 per cent to 1200 each year – less than half the number of deaths by suicide.”

Ballarat Survivors of Suicide founder Kristy Steenhuis said it is crucial that the stigma surrounding suicide is addressed.

Ms Steenhuis started the Survivors of Suicide group after her husband committed suicide a decade ago.

“Because I have been touched by it, it (suicide) rolls off my tongue like any other word,” Ms Steenhuis said.

“But because of that stigma, people don’t want to reach out to those around them. 

“Ballarat has a higher than average suicide rate and it’s time that the government, community and everybody in general stand up and talk about it.”

“It comes back to some really basic stuff like humanity and talking to your mates.”

Survivors of Suicide offers support meetings monthly at the Black Hill Primary School, as well as one-on-one counselling sessions.

For further information, Ms Steenhuis can be contacted on 0427 762 929, with counsellor Tanya McMullen also available on 0449 913 535.

Lifeline offers a crisis or suicide prevention support through the 13 11 14 phone number or on the www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp website.