13YARN to add text-based crisis support, aiming to remove barriers for First Nations callers

13YARN currently operates as a 24/7 phone service delivered by Lifeline Australia, offering safe crisis support for mob who are feeling overwhelmed or struggling to cope. Under the expansion, Lifeline will develop the text option in partnership with Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia, with the organisations operating under joint governance and leadership.

Gayaa Dhuwi chief executive Rachel Fishlock said the new capability responds to gaps identified in a national system review. “The review highlighted ongoing gaps in access to coordinated, appropriate mental health and crisis supports, and the need to strengthen services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people” she said. Fishlock said the text service is designed to reduce barriers for people who may be unable or unwilling to talk aloud. “Expanding 13YARN to include text-based support will remove barriers and improve accessibility, particularly for mob who prefer to reach out in different ways,” she said.

Lifeline Australia Head of Indigenous Affairs Aunty Marj Anderson said the text option could reach people who are less likely to call, including younger people and those facing heightened risk factors. “Young Indigenous people, people experiencing domestic and family violence, and people with disabilities are more likely to use a culturally safe, non-judgemental and anonymous text service,” she said. “It’s what the community have been asking for.”

The expansion comes as demand for 13YARN continues to grow. The service answered its 100,000th call on Christmas Day last year, almost a year earlier than expected, according to reporting on the announcement.

While the text-based service will be developed over time, 13YARN emphasises that immediate help remains available now, with callers able to reach the service at any time for one-on-one crisis support with trained Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis supporters.