This study evaluates an intervention program in its first 2 years of operation in rural Western Australia. The program was effective in producing a systems change within the hospital by implementing a protocol of best practice & in improving the inter-sectoral liaison between community-based referrals & treatment agencies through professional & community education. The early indications suggest a reduction in the rate of hospital admissions for repeated suicide attempts for cases who were managed by the suicide intervention counsellor through a high-intervention approach. (15 refs)