Media Releases

A recent report that the company paid to provide mental health services in detention centres has admitted “that prolonged detention of asylum seekers has created high demand for psychiatric services which its staff can’t meet” is further evidence that the Government must urgently review the standards of mental health care in all immigration detention centres.

Following last night’s alarming look at life inside immigration detention centres on ABC TV ’s Four Corners, key health and mental health organisations and mental health advocates are demanding the Government urgently review the standards of mental health care in all immigration detention centres.

10 October 2011 was World Mental Health Day. This day is a time to recognise and acknowledge the advancements and progress we have made in ensuring all Australians have access to a quality mental health system.

The Mental Health Council of Australia welcomes the appointment of Monsignor David Cappo as the first National Mental Health Commissioner of Australia. “Monsignor Cappo’s appointment is warmly welcomed. He has been a strong advocate for mental health and social inclusion and will help shape the roadmap to reform that Minister Butler has initiated”, said Frank Quinlan, CEO of the Mental Health Council of Australia.