In announcing his resignation due to depression today, West Australian Premier Geoff Gallop has shown tremendous courage and assisted in destigmatising mental illness, Christopher Pyne, the Parliamentary Secretary for Health, said today.

"There is still stigma attached to mental illness in this country," Mr Pyne said.

"When public figures like Geoff Gallop, cricketer Michael Slater and actor Gary McDonald admit to suffering from depression, it contributes to breaking down the barriers to others talking about and seeking help for depression," he said.

Around one million Australian adults and 100,000 young people live with depression each year. On average, one in five people will experience depression in their lives.

"Increasing public awareness and helping sufferers of depression to recognise the condition and seek treatment is the key to reducing the debilitating impact of depression," Mr Pyne said.

Media contact: Adam Howard 0400 414 833