Family of young Indigenous woman who took her own life in Melbourne hospital call for investigation

Makalie Watts-Owens, a 24-year-old Tagalaka, Kukatja and Worimi woman, voluntarily admitted herself to St Vincent’s before her death

WARNING: this story contains distressing content

The family and friends of a young Aboriginal woman who took her own life in a Melbourne hospital within hours of presenting seeking psychiatric help are calling for a full investigation into her treatment.

Makalie Watts-Owens, a 24-year-old Tagalaka, Kukatja and Worimi woman who was working in the Victorian Office of Public Prosecutions and studying law, voluntarily admitted herself to St Vincents hospital on Thursday 15 February and was seen that evening.

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For information and support in Australia call 13YARN on 13 92 76 for a crisis support line for Indigenous Australians; or call Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978 and Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. International helplines can be found at befrienders.org

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Category: Mental Health