Legislative bills introduced in ACT and Ontario addressing social services

In the Australian Capital Territory, Opposition Leader Mark Parton has introduced the Suicide Prevention Bill 2026. The legislation seeks to make suicide prevention a permanent responsibility across the ACT Government. Key provisions include the establishment of a Suicide Prevention Council to provide advice and ensure input from those with lived experience, the creation of a register for suspected and confirmed deaths by suicide, and a requirement for agencies to develop prevention plans. The bill also mandates annual reporting to the Legislative Assembly to allow for public scrutiny of government progress and data trends.

In Ontario, Canada, Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky and three other opposition members have co-sponsored Bill 117, known as the Access Act of 2026. The bill proposes a grant program through the Ontario Ministry of Health to help residents offset travel costs for essential medical care that is unavailable near their homes. To qualify, applicants must be Ontario residents referred by a primary care provider, travel at least 100 kilometres, and demonstrate that private insurance or WSIB does not cover the expenses.