Who we are

Thirrili is a proud Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation that is led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing. As an Aboriginal and Torres Islander Community Controlled Organisation, we recognise the strengths of our communities and our strong responsibility to support communities in the aftermath of suicide or unexpected fatal incidents. We uphold protective boundaries for individuals, families and communities that allow self-determination in their ways of bereavement and healing.

Our vision

That Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families and communities are thriving and flourishing for future generations to be free from the traumatic impacts of suicide.

Our purpose

To provide crucial and timely support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with the acknowledgement of shared, collective, continuous ancestral connections, by drawing on cultural ways of knowing, being, and doing. To achieve this purpose, we:

  • Support communities in the aftermath of suicide or other fatal critical incidents.
  • Work collectively with communities to build self-determined lives free from the impacts of suicide.
  • Inform systems change at all levels.

Our organisation is immersed in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community values. By our actions we demonstrate that all are welcome, everyone belongs, and everyone has a positive contribution to make. We invite communities to hold us accountable to these cultural values.

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Story of Thirrili

Founded in 2017, Thirrili takes pride in being the national provider for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander postvention support and assistance. Thirrili is a Bunuba word which means power and strength. Our approach is all about recognising and harnessing the inherent strength of individuals, families and communities.

When Adele Cox, the Founding Director of Thirrili, envisioned a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to leading the charge in addressing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander suicide prevention and postvention, she had a heart-to-heart with her Aunty, June Oscar AO. It was during this conversation that the term Thirrili was suggested, capturing not only the nature of the mission but also acknowledging Adele’s cultural roots as a proud Bunuba and Gija woman.

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