We welcome the Victorian Government’s overall increase in mental health funding in the 2017-18 state budget announced on Tuesday.However, at a time of reform and with the NDIS anticipated to provide support for only a proportion of those with severe and persistent mental illness, additional funding is still needed for community-based and psychosocial support services which are critical in supporting recovery.
A renewed focus on early intervention will not only improve the prospect for recovery for people affected by mental illness, but also lessen the need for future intensive treatment.
Combined with an ongoing effort to reduce stigma associated with mental illness, early intervention and ongoing psychosocial support has the potential to change the lives of many Australians affected by mental illness.
At SANE, we look forward to continue working closely with all levels of government to provide the four million Australians affected by complex mental illness with better support, stronger connections, less discrimination and longer lives.