Mental health services are stretched thin, with young people in particular struggling to access timely care. Five years after the Productivity Commission’s landmark report, it’s time to assess whether key recommendations have been implemented and whether they’re making a real difference. I will push for stronger federal investment in mental health services, greater access to early intervention programs, and a renewed focus on suicide prevention, particularly for young Australians and older men. We are in a mental health crisis and must train more psychologists and psychiatrists, and make sure everyone has access to at least 10 free psychology sessions per year under Medicare.

Mental health care should be proactive, accessible, and integrated into our broader healthcare system.