The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health is concerned that funding for community mental health NGOs in Queensland trails far behind the national per capita average. “The sector needs a 48 per cent boost to its funding just to bring it into line with the national average,” QAMH CEO Jennifer Black said.
QAMH welcomes the State Government’s budget measures to increase the overall health budget, however it is unclear how much – if any – will go to mental health NGOs. “It is also unclear where the money raised through the new Mental Health Levy is being spent, and whether any of that will flow to NGOs,” Ms Black said, referring to the Levy on big business which was announced in last year’s budget.
“The community mental health sector has huge potential to alleviate mental distress in the community and take the burden off the hospital system, but it needs to be funded to do so,” Ms Black added.
“Queenslanders deserve more options and opportunities in their communities to address mental health concerns.” The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health represents over 100 members and stakeholders in the Queensland Community Mental Health and Wellbeing Sector and is also the peak body for people with psychosocial disability.
