Australia's Mental Health Plan Needs Redesigning, Says New Report

Australia's national plan to improve mental health and prevent suicide is not effective and needs to be rewritten, according to a report by the Productivity Commission. The report reviewed the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, which aims to enhance the mental health of Australians through shared commitments between the federal and state governments. However, the report found that the agreement, signed in 2022, is flawed and has not led to significant improvements in the mental health system.

The agreement focuses on improving mental health and wellbeing, reducing suicide rates, and enhancing life expectancy for individuals with mental health conditions. It includes initiatives such as new mental health centers, distress intervention sites, and phone services for referrals. Commissioner Angela Jackson stated that the current agreement's objectives are too broad and lack measurability, hindering major changes in the mental health system.

Australia is experiencing a mental health crisis due to workforce shortages and insufficient mental health facilities. The report highlighted that mental health and suicide rates have not improved in recent years, with a concerning increase in suicide rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The fragmented system and lack of early intervention were identified as key issues that need to be addressed.

Public responses submitted to the Commission revealed gaps in the system, such as lack of coordination between clinicians and inadequate community support post-discharge. The report emphasized the need for dedicated funding to achieve the agreement's commitments, especially in closing the health gap for Indigenous communities.

Dr. Clinton Schultz emphasized the importance of linking research to practical implementation to support effective mental health interventions. The report also highlighted the withdrawal of funding for psychosocial support, leaving many individuals without necessary assistance.

The commission recommended extending the current agreement to 2027 to allow for the development of a new agreement with measurable outcomes and greater accountability. Health Minister Mark Butler acknowledged the structural issues identified in the review and emphasized the need for reform in the mental health system.

The Productivity Commission is seeking more public input before finalizing its report later this year.

According to the source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.