Experts Gather to Guide Better Coordination for Mental Health Consumers
A forum for mental health consumers, carers, community workers, counsellors, doctors and nurses will provide input to the coordinated care measure announced in this year's budget.
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11 August 2011
The Mental Health Council of Australia will today host a forum for mental health consumers, carers, community workers, counsellors, doctors and nurses to provide input to the Coordinated Care measure announced in this year's budget.
Speaking in Canberra, the CEO of the Mental Health Council of Australia, Mr Frank Quinlan said, “Having achieved some pretty significant investments in the most recent Commonwealth budget, we are eager to ensure that the money is spent wisely and effectively. The best way to do that is to bring those making the policy together with those affected by the policy.”
The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, will attend the feedback session at the end of today’s meeting as the first step in consultation about this important measure.
“Today’s forum will provide consumers, carers and service providers with the opportunity to provide input and feedback on the delivery of the Government’s mental health reforms,” Mr Butler said.
“This year’s budget included the single largest mental health investment in Australian history with more than $2.2 billion in new initiatives, including $571.3 million over five years for more and better coordinated services.
“There are around 60,000 Australians living with severe, persistent and debilitating illness who have complex needs. It’s essential that clinical care and non-clinical services including employment and housing are well coordinated “
“I want to hear how the Gillard Government’s commitment to invest in better coordination can best help those experiencing severe and persistent mental illness”
The Mental Health Council of Australia (MHCA) is the peak, national non-government organisation representing and promoting the interests of the Australian mental health sector, committed to achieving better mental health for all Australians.
For more information please contact Mr Butler’s office (02) 6277 7280
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