In its submission to the Productivity Commission’s Review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, QAMH highlights the persistent gaps in Australia’s mental health system – particularly the lack of sustainable investment in community-based care, the ongoing fragmentation between governments, and the undervaluing of lived experience and peer-led supports.

Drawing on consultation with members across Queensland, QAMH outlines key system-wide reforms that recognise the importance of prevention, early intervention, and psychosocial support.

QAMH recommends:

1. Increase sustainable, flexible, and indexed funding for Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Services.
2. Clarify and finalise the roles of federal, state and territory governments, including integration with NDIS reforms.
3. Establish a national social prescribing scheme to strengthen prevention and early intervention, including stronger GP engagement.
4. Expand and fund crisis alternatives to Emergency Departments, including Safe Spaces.
5. Invest in the development and sustainability of the lived experience and peer workforce.
6. Improve mechanisms for data collection and service mapping.
7. Ensure culturally responsive, safe, and targeted support for high-risk communities.
8. Treat digital mental health tools as complementary, not replacements.
9. Recognise and support families and unpaid carers.

QAMH urges a national approach that funds what works – community-based, person-led models that foster connection, hope, and wellbeing.