Calling for mental health support for those missing out

Representatives from selectability’s executive team and board are in Canberra this week calling for funding for vital support for Australians living with severe and complex mental illness not eligible for services.

selectability is part of a national alliance of organisations urging all Australian governments to implement the recommendations of the Productivity Commisson’s recent inquiry into mental health and invest in a national psychosocial support program for the 154000 people currently missing out.

selectability CEO Debra Burden, said funding for psychosocial support outside the NDIS had decreased dramatically since the scheme's introduction so addressing this unmet need was an urgent priority.

“Without appropriate community-based support people living with severe and complex mental illness experience poorer social, economic and health outcomes,” said Ms Burden.

“This includes shorter life expectancy, more suicide attempts, homelessness, relationship breakdowns and unemployment to name a few.

“With the support they need and deserve the 154,000 Australians currently missing out can go on to lead happy, healthy, fulfilling and contributing lives.” 

While in Canberra Debra Burden, selectability’s new chair Danielle Hornsby and outgoing chair Tom Ryan met with Governor-General, David Hurley who is the patron of Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia – a key driver of the national campaign.