The Productivity Commission’s final review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement was released on 12 November.
The review found the Agreement is not effective and a new policy architecture is needed to articulate the collective actions that will deliver changes to the mental health and suicide prevention system and improve outcomes.
"In the three years since the [National Mental Health] Agreement was signed, little has improved for the people who access mental health and suicide prevention services, and their supporters, family, carers and kin," the commission wrote.
Key findings included:
· The mental health and suicide prevention system is fragmented and out of reach for many people.
· Consumers, carers and providers report services remain uncoordinated, unaffordable and difficult to navigate. This is despite some progress in implementing actions under the Agreement and the substantial efforts of many working across mental health and suicide prevention services.
· A new policy architecture is needed to articulate the collective actions that will deliver changes to the mental health and suicide prevention system and improve outcomes. This should be developed by governments in a process of co-design with people with lived and living experience of mental ill health and suicide, their supporters, family, carers and kin as well as service providers and practitioners.
Government response and next steps
The government has acknowledged that there are improvements to be made to national service systems and how it addresses gaps and changing needs.
The Health and Disability Minister, Mark Butler, will bring the report to the next Health Ministers’ Meeting and the next joint Health and Mental Health Ministers' Meeting to begin discussions on future arrangements that deliver real reform and meaningful outcomes for Australians.
“This is an opportunity to reset and get this right,” he said on receiving the report.
“We must amplify the voices of people with lived experience and ensure future arrangements present a clear, long-term vision for improving mental health outcomes and reducing suicide.”
How Flourish Australia can help
One of Australia’s leading providers of specialised mental health support services, Flourish Australia is dedicated to coming alongside people on their recovery journey and creating communities and environments where mental wellbeing thrives.
Flourish Australia has a range of social support services that show people how to develop new social connections and build community, while encouraging them to try new things and get involved, so they become less isolated.
Being part of the Flourish Australia family is a great way to make new friends and get more involved with your local community.
For more information, contact us on 1300 779 270 or make an enquiry now.
Talk to us today
For more information, contact us on 1300 779 270 or make an enquiry now.
