The reform journey in 2022
For 10 years, the National Mental Health Commission has focussed on providing clear and independent advice to Government on what needs to change to build effective mental health and suicide prevention systems that meet the needs of everyone living in Australia. As we reach the end of 2022, we reflect on the importance of this work.
As we continue our work to support the reform of these systems, we remain committed to working alongside those with lived and living experience of mental ill-health and suicide and supporting their leadership in the reform process. Throughout 2022, we have continued to create spaces to hear from and amplify these voices.
In 2022, I have personally valued the opportunity to connect with many of you, particularly through our Making Connections program. Over a number of months, we had the opportunity to visit 35 communities across Australia, to hear first-hand from people in the places where they live and work. We heard about the very personal impact of the pandemic, bushfires and floods on individuals and communities; the impact of stigma and discrimination, and the frustration when services do not meet people’s needs. We also heard about the power of community and social connection in supporting wellbeing.
The knowledge and understanding we are gaining from these deep connections and conversations are assisting with our efforts to provide independent policy advice to the Australian Government, to monitor and report on the progress of reform efforts and to be a catalyst for change to improve mental health and wellbeing.
Some of the key ways in which we have achieved this in 2022 have been through the establishment of the National Suicide Prevention Office and commencement on the work of the National Suicide Prevention Strategy, the drafting of the National Stigma and Discrimination Reduction Strategy, our ongoing support for the National Workplace Initiative to foster a nationally consistent approach to workplace mental
health, and the National Mental Health Research Strategy to stimulate collaboration in mental health research and guide research funders. In addition, our work to provide advice to Government on the establishment of national peak bodies to represent mental health consumers and carers, family and kin, and our national reports have all been shaped by the contributions of those with lived and living experience.
Our vision is for systems that truly care for those who need them. We acknowledge we still have a long way to go to deliver people-centric systems that truly prioritise the needs of people with lived and living experience, and those that support and care for others.
The Christmas season, while happy for some, can also be a difficult time. We hope that in the coming weeks you can take some time to rest, reflect and connect with others.
We look forward to continuing our journey next year and beyond to realise our vision. Working together, we can continue to drive change that improves and delivers support for the mental health and wellbeing of all who live in Australia.
Christine Morgan
CEO
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