Getting the architecture of the mental health system right
Our mental health system stands at a pivotal juncture, with multiple avenues of reform converging to shape its future trajectory.
As we await the Federal Budget next week, the spotlight is on the Australian Government’s response to critical recommendations including from the Better Access Evaluation and broader mental health reform advice from the Mental Health Reform Advisory Committee.
Among this architecture, the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement and bilaterals, up for review by June 2025 and re-negotiation by June 2026, hold significant importance. Current negotiations for the next National Health Reform Agreement also present an important opportunity for reforms in mental health care funding and delivery.
Simultaneously, there are significant changes in the system architecture governing supports for people with psychosocial disability.
The recent introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment Bill (the NDIS Bill) into Parliament represents a fast response from the Australian Government to get reforms in response to the NDIS Review underway.
On Friday last week Mental Health Australia hosted a webinar on the NDIS Bill with our members. We were grateful to Ms Julie Yeend, from the Department of Social Services, who presented on the legislation and answered very considered questions posed by our members.
The Bill’s proposed amendments focus on crucial aspects of the NDIS Review recommendations, including putting the foundations in place to enhance the early intervention pathways, refining participant budget allocation processes, and bolstering the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
However, the specifics of these reforms are deferred to subsequent legislative instruments, which the Government says will be developed in co-design and consultation with the disability community. This is an ask for significant trust from the disability and mental health sectors to support the current NDIS Bill, trusting that the future legislative instruments it enables will be developed with us.
This trust hinges on the assurance of genuine engagement with community through the development of legislative instruments, and that the intentions of the NDIS Review will translate into tangible improvements in service delivery and support mechanisms.
Mental Health Australia recognises the significance of this moment and commits to actively contribute to shaping the NDIS Bill through a submission to the Senate inquiry into the Bill. Members and stakeholders are also invited to contribute submissions to this inquiry by 17 May.
As we navigate these complex reforms across mental health and psychosocial disability service systems, it’s imperative to maintain a collective focus on building systems that are responsive, equitable, integrated and supportive of the diverse needs of individuals, families and communities.
We have opportunities to change the trajectory of mental health in Australia, and make sure that everyone gets the support they need, when they need it.
Carolyn Nikoloski
CEO, Mental Health Australia | 
Being Media Release: Social Justice Report 
