Independently evaluating the impact of Live4Life
Break O'Day Evaluation Report
Made possible through funding from the Federal Government's National Suicide Prevention Leadership and Support Program (NSPLSP), the Centre for Rural Health at the University of Tasmania undertook an evaluation of the first two years of Live4Life’s pilot program in Break O’Day Shire.
“Young people, families, educators, and services consistently described positive changes in mental health literacy, confidence, help-seeking, and school and community connection.”
Break O'Day is the first community outside Victoria to implement the Live4Life model, commencing in 2024 supported by Fingal Valley Neighbourhood House.
The University of Tasmania evaluation used a Participatory Action Research (PAR) framework and engaged a wide cross-section of the Break O’Day community, including MHFA participants (students and community members), Crew members, school leadership, program staff, and youth mental health service providers.
More than 250 people contributed their experience of the program through surveys, interviews and focus groups. This broad participation ensured the evaluation captured diverse perspectives and reflected the lived experiences of those most involved in, and impacted by, Live4Life in Break O’Day. The design combines measurement of behavioural and attitudinal change with a strong emphasis on the lived experience of young people, educators, clinicians, families and community members.
Key Findings
“It opened up conversations that families weren’t having before.”
Community member 2024
Live4Life is already making a meaningful difference in Break O’Day, with early outcomes pointing to cultural and behavioural shifts across the community. Young people, families, educators, and services consistently described positive changes in mental health literacy, confidence, help-seeking, and school and community connection. Additionally, the evaluation highlights critical challenges that need sustained investment to ensure long-term success
Readiness for replication and scale
Break O’Day demonstrates the Live4Life’s model’s employability beyond Victoria. Stakeholders see strong readiness for expansion across Dorset, Glamorgan, Spring Bay, and the broader north east. Support from Live4Life was consistently described as responsive, practical and essential.
Mental health literacy and confidence
Survey and qualitative findings show clear improvements in young people’s understanding of mental health, signs of distress, and strategies to help peers.
A shift towards help-seeking
Young people, families and educators describe a cultural shift where talking about mental health feels more acceptable.
Strengthened community and school culture
Schools and services report improved collaboration, communication and shared commitment to wellbeing.
Growth in youth leadership
Crew members describe increased confidence, communication skills, and leadership identity.
“I’ve seen young people in schools feeling safe to be themselves and supported to stand up and actually speak about mental health to their peers.”
Service provider 2025
University of Tasmania Webinar Presentation
When Young People Lead, Things Change: The Live4Life Experience in Break O'Day
Presented by Dr Ha Hoang and Dr Laura Grattidge on Fru
