Jeremy Rockliff,Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing
The 2019-20 Annual Report of the Chief Civil Psychiatrist and Chief Forensic Psychiatrist tabled in the Tasmanian Parliament today outlines the positive developments Tasmania is making when it comes to mental health reform.
The Annual Report covers the Chief Psychiatrists’ activities during 2019-20, including statutory functions as well as other work undertaken within the broader mental health and suicide prevention space in Tasmania.
Since commencing in August 2019, the Mental Health Reform Program is continuing to make significant progress in implementing recommendations from the Report of the Mental Health Integration Taskforce and Government Response.
The Annual Report also provides an update on national work to support people on mental health orders who move jurisdictions, which is being led by both the Tasmanian and Queensland Governments.
Importantly, the Annual Report noted that the Review of the Mental Health Act has been completed and the Government Response tabled in Parliament. We recognise that more can be done to ensure some aspects of the Act are able to operate more effectively, and our response to the 29 outcomes in the Review acknowledges feedback received.
The Tasmanian Liberal Government has a $104 plan to build a better integrated mental health system, with more focus on hospital avoidance, community-based care and brand new facilities.
As a result of COVID-19, we have also announced a $4 million support package to support those experiencing mental health difficulties including establishing a dedicated 1800 help line, increasing capacity to provide mental health services, and targeting mental health support for vulnerable Tasmanians.
