Gaps in service delivery and overstretched clinical services in the mental health sector can be alleviated, if community-managed services receive a bigger slice of the budget pie, according to the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health.

QAMH welcomes the focus on mental health in the 2021/22 budget but wants to ensure that community-based services are able to expand to deliver a range of wellbeing interventions in the community.

“Currently, the mental health system is overstretched and designed to respond to people when they reach a crisis point,” says QAMH CEO Jennifer Black.

“The Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Sector can play a crucial role in promotion of wellbeing across the community, as an early intervention strategy before that person requires emergency care, hospitalisation or other clinical care.”

QAMH has over 100 members, many of whom are community-managed mental health and wellbeing services across the state. Many of these services offer practical support and coaching to help people experiencing mental distress live well in the community.

“In terms of what this budget investment means for community mental health in Queensland, it really remains contingent on deals with the states and territories that will be negotiated over the coming months,” Ms Black says.

“The good news is that the Federal Government is seeing mental health as a priority and is acknowledging those with lived experience and their extended networks need to have a greater say in system reform.

“We will continue to support and advocate for community-based services to foster better outcomes for people experiencing mental health issues.”

Access the full Federal Budget 2021 here

Enquiries regarding this media release can be directed to:

Marketing and Communications
Queensland Alliance for mental Health

Email: marketing@qamh.org.au
Phone: 07 3394 8480

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