Mental Health Australia welcomes Dr Gerry Naughtin’s appointment to the NDIA

Mental Health Australia CEO Frank Quinlan has today welcomed the appointment of Dr Gerry Naughtin as Mental Health Advisor to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

“This is a great appointment and we are very excited at the prospect of working together,” said Mr Quinlan.

“Dr Naughtin is widely and well regarded for his deep commitment to supporting people living with mental illness, demonstrated through his successful tenure as CEO of Mind Australia.”

“Through his role on the NDIAs Independent Advisory Council, Dr Naughtin has also had the opportunity to consider the challenges that we all face together, to get the NDIS right for those living with psychosocial disability.”

“The selection of Dr Naughtin to this important role demonstrates the NDIA is committed to working closely with people living with mental illness, and with the services that support them, to craft a National Disability Insurance Scheme we can all be proud of.”

“The Productivity Commission and other recent reports have recommend psychosocial disability should be given the highest priority, and Dr Naughtin’s appointment demonstrates the NDIA has taken up this challenge.”

Frank Quinlan also paid tribute to Mr Eddie Bartnik, who is retiring from the role.

“At a time when the scheme was new and when we were all in unchartered territory, Mr Bartnik was a great advocate for genuine participant choice and control, over the shape of services they might need.”

“Dr Naughtin can now build on the foundations that have been laid as the scheme reaches full rollout.”

“We look forward to working together to support Dr Naughtin’s important work.”

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Media Contact Lach Searle – 0488 076 088