Mental Health Minister Roger Cook today announced the appointment of an independent Chair to lead a new taskforce for children and adolescents.
The taskforce will outline a comprehensive plan for a contemporary, world-class child and adolescent service operating model, incorporating best practice nationally and internationally.
Ms Robyn Kruk AO has been appointed the independent Chair, commencing March 2021.
Ms Kruk has extensive experience in the public service, including as Chair of the WA Sustainable Health Review between 2017 and 2019.
She was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia in 2018 for her distinguished work in mental health reform.
Mr Cook announced the taskforce in December in response to recommendations from the Chief Psychiatrist’s review into the care provided to WA adolescent Ms Kate Savage.
The members of the taskforce will include:
- Mental Health Commissioner Ms Jennifer McGrath
- Child and adolescent psychiatrist Professor Helen Milroy
- Chief Medical Officer Mental Health Dr Sophie Davison
- Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Ms Robina Redknap
- Chief Executive of the Child and Adolescent Health Service Dr Aresh Anwar
- Chief Executive of the WA Country Health Service (WACHS) Mr Jeff Moffet
- A lived experience representative
- A clinical representative
The taskforce will be supported by three expert advisory groups (clinical, lived experience and interagency) and will actively engage children, adolescents, families, clinicians and other key stakeholders in the design of public specialist mental health services for children and adolescents that fit WA’s unique circumstances.
Demand in the Community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services has risen 50 per cent between 2015 and 2019, reflecting a nationwide increase in demand for mental health services.
The taskforce’s final report is expected to be delivered in late 2021.
As stated by Mental Health Minister Roger Cook:
“I am pleased to announce that the taskforce is on track with the appointment of Robyn Kruk as the Chair to guide the panel of experts to achieve its objectives.
“The taskforce’s scope includes examination and review of the public mental health services for children and adolescents across WA.
“We have made it a priority to improve and act earlier to help children and adolescents dealing with mental health issues.
“The taskforce will focus on three main areas: models of care, service demand and sustainability.
“This is another step towards improving Western Australia’s public mental health services for our children and adolescents, we are committed to providing the best support and care for their mental health.”
