Mental health and suicide prevention

Almost half of all Australian adults will face mental ill-health during their lives. Suicide was the main cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 49 years in 2019. Find out what we're doing to support people with mental ill-health and reduce suicide in Australia.

About mental health

Find out what we’re doing to support Australians with mental ill-health.

About suicide prevention

Read how we're working to prevent suicide and support those affected.

Better Access initiative

See Medicare rebates that help people access mental health support.

Get help now

Find a list of contacts for organisations that can give you the help you need.

Find support

If you are in a crisis, find a list of services that can help you right now, at Head to Health. 

Crisis support contacts

Mental health support during COVID-19

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, physical distancing and isolation can make us feel anxious, stressed and worried. Read about what you can do to look after your mental wellbeing and look out for those around you as we tackle these challenges together.

Did you know?

1 in 2

Australian adults will face mental ill-health at some point in their lives

3,000

Australians end their lives each year

Up to $220 billion

is the estimated cost of suicide to our economy

Latest news

Latest news

Your Aged Care Update #06, 2023

Your Aged Care Update #06: Residents’ Experience Surveys, register for webinars and training, and more

Latest resources

Latest resources

Better Access – Involving family or carers in my mental health treatment

This fact sheet outlines available Medicare rebates under the MBS initiative (Better Access).

Evaluation of the Program of Assistance for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (PASTT) final report

The PASTT evaluation assessed the effectiveness, accessibility, appropriateness and cost effectiveness of PASTT in contributing to the successful resettlement of humanitarian entrants in Australia.

Appendices - Evaluation of the Better Access initiative

Appendices supporting the final report of an independent evaluation of the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) Initiative by the University of Melbourne.

Executive Summary - Evaluation of the Better Access initiative

This is the executive summary of the final report of an independent evaluation of the Better Access to Psychiatrists, Psychologists and General Practitioners through the Medicare Benefits Schedule (Better Access) Initiative by the University of Melbourne.