Psychiatrists say Federal Labor’s announcement will bring us closer to a mental health system where no Australian falls through the cracks, and everyone can access the right care, at the right time, from a trained mental health professional.

RANZCP President Dr Elizabeth Moore said the investment recognises that people have been and are being left behind due to Australia’s chronic shortage of mental health professionals.

“We particularly welcome the $90 million investment earmarked for over 1200 new mental health workers. This investment will increase the number of psychiatrists, psychologists, GPs and peer workers available to the community.

“You can’t run a mental health system without the workforce. Clinics and hospitals are just buildings and rooms without the people at the frontlines. This announcement shows the Federal Labor Party understands the urgent need to fix the mental health workforce crisis.

“Every year, too many people miss out on the vital care they need because it’s too far away, too long a wait or simply unavailable. The RANZCP welcomes the additional investment in Medicare Mental Health Centres, headspace services and Youth Specialist Care Centres for young people with complex needs.

“Mental illness doesn’t discriminate based on who you vote for. It should be a bipartisan issue. We strongly urge other parties to take notice and match Federal Labor’s commitment ahead of the election in May.

“We can’t afford to put the mental health needs of Australians on the back foot anymore.”

For all other expert mental health information visit Your Health in Mind, the RANZCP’s consumer health information website.

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org.

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.