Terms of Reference

The Terms of Reference for the Productivity Commission’s inquiry into mental health were released on 23 November 2018, along with the announcement of the appointment of an Associate Commissioner for the Inquiry.

The inquiry will consider how mental illness can affect all aspects of a person’s quality of life including physical health, social participation, education, employment and financial status.

The scope of the Inquiry will include:

• Examining the effect of supporting mental health on economic and social participation, productivity and the Australian economy;
• Examining how sectors beyond health, including education, employment, social services, housing and justice can contribute to improving mental health and economic participation and productivity;
• Examining the effectiveness of current programs and initiatives across all jurisdictions to improve mental health, suicide prevention and participation, including by governments, employers and professional groups;
• Assessing whether the current investment in mental health is delivering value for money and the best outcomes for individuals, their families, society and the economy;
• Drawing on domestic and international policies and experience, where appropriate; and
• Developing a framework to measure and report the outcomes of mental health policies and investment on participation, productivity and economic growth over the long term.

Read the full Terms of Reference and other information on the Productivity Commission website.