A Suicide in Rural and Remote Areas of Australia report, compiled at the request of the Australian Suicide Prevention Advisory Council, has shown disproportionately high rates of suicides in remote regions compared to metropolitan areas.

Statistics from Queensland showed men in remote areas were 2.6 times more likely to die by suicide and rural, regional and remote communities face rates of suicide around 20 to 30 per cent higher than in metro areas.

Schizophrenia Fellowship chief Rob Ramjam AM, who was in Wagga yesterday for the five-year anniversary of Sunflower House, said the report was consistent with issues in this area.

"There have been clusters of suicides in the Murrumbidgee area, in one case there were 13 suicides within nine weeks," Mr Ramjam said.

"All of those were men from the land."

Some of the deaths heard about are by fourth or fifth generation farmers, who for them it's not just about losing their job but their heritage."

There is no question over the last few years that the greatest risk is the bloke on the land."

The report showed that regional communities face unique challenges in preventing and recovering from suicide including social isolation, economic stresses and lack of availability of services.

A number of key recommendations were made in the report, including the provision of greater support to farming communities.

"The beauty of this announcement is the commitment to a string of national programs," Mr Ramjam said.

"Right now, as far as I am aware, there is no specific program available nationally but there are good local programs."

Minister for Mental Health Mark Butler announced the federal government would refocus its efforts in suicide prevention including a range of programs specifically targeted at rural communities.

As a part of a $292 million investment, $14.17 million will be given for community-based prevention projects.

"Having access to good mental health services is an effective way to address and help reduce suicide in our community because we know that the greatest single risk factor for suicide is mental health," Mr Butler said.

How you can help someone you think is experiencing depression: 

- Don’t pressure them to cheer up or snap out of it.

- Don’t assume the problem will go away

- Spend time listening to them about their experiences

- Do suggest they see a doctor or health professional

- Encourage them to become involved in social activities, exercise and eat well

If you notice symptoms of depression, stress or not coping for longer than two weeks, the following services are available:

- Visit your GP. They can refer you to a psychologist or counsellor for services such as the free Better Access to Mental Health Care Initiative.

- Murrumbidgee Local Health District AccessLine. This service is available 24 hours on 1800 800 944.

- Wagga Base Hospital Emergency Department

- Lifeline 1300 131 114

- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800

- Mensline 1300 789 978

- beyondblue 1300 224 636

- Emergency triple-0 (000)