Half million Australians lack mental health care access
The inquiry, which examined the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement signed three years ago by federal, state, and territory governments, found that these gaps contribute to roughly 3,000 deaths by suicide each year. It also highlighted that one in five Australians experiences mental illness annually, costing the economy over AUD 200 billion (~$132 billion).
The commission noted that little progress has been made since the agreement was signed and called for an immediate fix for those excluded from care because their conditions do not qualify under the National Disability Insurance Scheme. It recommended extending the agreement to 2026 and rewriting it entirely.
Health Minister Mark Butler welcomed the report, saying he will meet with state health ministers in December to discuss improvements. “This is an opportunity to reset and get this right,” he said, emphasizing the need to amplify voices of those with lived experience and ensure a clear, long-term vision for mental health reform.
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