Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tasked Christine Morgan with tackling the mental health issue in Australia, appointing her on Monday morning.

And Mr Baker said the new role shows the government are "doing something immediately".

"Suicide rates in our country are totally unacceptable," Mr Baker said.

"And this appointment is a welcome announcement and shows the government are getting in there and doing something about the issue immediately. I think it will be a national approach but Ms Morgan may have to look at areas where suicide rates are the highest.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"I am pleased with the announcement and hope the adviser can make a real difference across the country."

According to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data, 3128 people died by suicide in 2017, the highest in the past 10 years.

Ms Morgan is the chief executive of the National Mental Health Commission and only recently stepped down from her position as chief executive of the Butterfly Foundation, which provides support for Australians with eating disorders, and formerly the director of the National Eating Disorders Collaboration.

"She is the right woman for the job. She has a really good background and understands the issue," Mr Baker said.

Mr Morrison said his government is working towards a "zero suicide goal".

"Suicide takes far too many Australians, devastating families and local communities. One life lost is one too many," he said.

Mr Morrison said about 80 per cent of people who took their own lives had mental health issues, although there was a range of factors and circumstances surrounding such deaths.

"That's why I am committed to taking all necessary action to tackle this issue, ensuring Australian families, communities and those facing challenges get the support they need," he said.

Receive our daily newsletter straight to your inbox each morning from The Border Mail. Sign up here