The federal government’s new national suicide prevention adviser is confident she can make a difference but admits “there is no magic pill”.

The Prime Minister has appointed National Mental Health Commission CEO Christine Morgan to the role, aiming for a dramatic drop in the suicide rate.

Scott Morrison says he is committed to taking “all necessary action to tackle this issue”.

Ms Morgan tells Steve Price the numbers are simply not acceptable.

“Suicide is the leading cause of death amongst our young people under the age of 25.

“We just can’t live with that. That’s just terrible, a terrible statistic.

“There is no magic pill.”

Ms Morgan says the PM, and the Opposition, are completely up for the challenge.

“Totally. I was sitting with him yesterday, we were having that conversation.

“It is a matter that goes very deeply to him. He really does care about it.

“That’s why I think there is something we can do.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview 

If you’re in need of help, contact BeyondBlue on 1300 22 4636 or beyondblue.org.au, or Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au.