About the evaluation
Better Access gives Medicare rebates to people with an assessed mental disorder, so they can access appropriate mental health care. The evaluation looked at how effective Better Access is in improving outcomes and increasing access to mental health care.
You can read more about the Better Access evaluation.
The final report from the evaluation is now available. You can read the government's response.
Why it is important
This evaluation helped the Australian Government decide how to change Better Access, so it can achieve its aims. Better Access aims to improve outcomes and increase access to mental health care.
Who we worked with
The University of Melbourne conducted an independent evaluation of Better Access.
A Clinical Advisory Group gave input and feedback on the evaluation.
A Stakeholder Engagement Group was consulted on the evaluation.
The government met with experts, organisations and people with lived experience of mental illness to discuss the evaluation findings.
Read more about the Mental Health Equity and Access Forum and the Mental Health Reform Advisory Committee.
Status
The evaluation started in August 2021 and completed in December 2022. The government published the response in August 2024, and is working with the mental health sector to implement changes to Better Access.