Calling for nation-wide action to improve mental health support

Australia’s health and mental health ministers have agreed to take immediate action on priorities recommended by Mental Health Australia, and 80 mental health organisations across Australia, including Relationships Australia Victoria. 

The agreement follows a joint Statement of Priorities calling for health and mental health ministers to take action to ensure better access to mental health support. It was released by national peak body for mental health, Mental Health Australia, and supported by 80 mental health organisations across Australia.

It outlined priority actions and next steps for Australian, state and territory governments to implement immediately to improve access to mental health supports. 

Relationships Australia Victoria is acutely aware of the prevalence of mental health issues in our communities, and that timely and accessible mental health support should be accessible to all Australians. 

We provide a range of specialist mental health services, including 3 headspace sites, our i-Connect Family Mental Health Support Service, and a new Youth Enhanced Service. In addition, over one third of our clients also have mental health-related needs when accessing our general services. 

We’re pleased to see that important priorities have been agreed upon, and look forward to working with the Victorian and Australian governments and the mental health sector to improve access to mental health services across Australia.