The Australian Psychological Society (APS) congratulates the Hon Greg Hunt MP on his recent appointment as the Minister for Health and Minister for Sport.
The APS also welcomes the appointment of the Hon Ken Wyatt MP as the Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Indigenous Health.
Professor Lyn Littlefield, APS Executive Director says, "Mental health is a critical and complex area of the health portfolio that I hope will be a major focus of the new Ministers".
"The Australian Government has begun implementing multiple initiatives across primary health care and mental health that requires strong oversight and informed decision making," she says.
She continues: "‘The APS is keen to work with the Ministers to support these changes and to inform new strategies that address the needs of people with mental health problems."
The APS has recently lodged its 2017/18 Budget submission that has identified 10 areas including increasing access and improving services for people with mental health problems, those with chronic disease, survivors of child abuse and domestic violence, and those affected by natural disasters.
It is also recommending strategies to improve treatment and support for people living in rural and remote areas and those in Residential Aged Care facilities, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
"We believe these initiatives will bring significant benefits to the Australian community,” says Prof Littlefield.
For more information, or to arrange an interview call the APS Media team on 03 8662 3358 / 0435 896 444, or email. Find the APS Media team on X: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 25,000 members. The APS is committed to advancing psychology as a discipline and profession. It spreads the message that psychologists make a difference to people’s lives, through improving psychological knowledge and community wellbeing.