COMPAS at UniSQ | Checking on mental health

Did you know one in three university students have experienced poor mental health, including suicidal ideation? That's 238 000 students at Australian universities each year. Given that suicide remains the leading cause of death for young people (15 – 24) and adults (25 – 44) in Australia*, we are taking action.

Introducing COMPAS at UniSQ

COMPAS is a pioneer suicide prevention tool and mental health support program for universities.

Developed by researchers at Curtin University, COMPAS is a survey with an advanced predictive algorithm that can identify individuals at risk of suicide within the next 12 months; meaning we can identify who needs support right now with 88% accuracy.

UniSQ is committed to improving early intervention and preventing a crisis before it occurs. Through collaboration with Curtin University and the COMPAS research team, we’re better able to recognise when someone might be struggling and offer timely support that can make a real difference.

How does COMPAS at UniSQ work?

1. You're invited

All current students will be invited to take part in a wellbeing survey from 30 June to 27 July 2025. It takes around 20 to 40 minutes and includes questions about your mental, physical and social wellbeing. You’re in control – only share what you’re comfortable with.

2. Real-time support detection

The algorithm is a piece of technology that scans the survey in real time to pinpoint students with a higher likelihood of creating a suicide plan or attempting self-harm in the coming year.

3. Personal check-in

If someone is identified through this process, our trained UniSQ COMPAS team will be notified. A team member will then reach out – by phone, text or email – to offer a free Telehealth appointment. During this appointment, we’ll complete an initial check-in, which may include developing a safety plan together and linking the student with UniSQ Wellbeing or community services for further support.

4. Personalised support

Students will be connected with services that offer the right support, practical guidance, and resources to meet their individual needs.

5. COMPAS follow-up

Around four weeks after your initial appointment, our UniSQ COMPAS team will check in with you to see how you’re going and offer any ongoing support you might need ongoing support.

Meet the Team

Our UniSQ Master of Psychology (Clinical) students are specially trained to provide initial assessments, referrals, and follow-ups. All phone, email and text conversations are closely supervised by a Senior Clinical Psychologist to ensure safe, high-quality support. Explore the COMPAS website for more details about the research project, additional resources and training support.

^{References: *Deaths in Australia, Leading causes of death - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Curtin University Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC) has approved this study (HRE2024-0356), and the University of Southern Queensland HREC has acknowledged the ethics approval from Curtin University (ETH2025-0374).}

Frequently Asked Questions