The Australian Psychological Society (APS) welcomes the Victorian Government’s recognition of the critical role of psychologists to mental health reform, as announced in the Victorian Budget this week.
APS CEO Dr Zena Burgess noted the Victorian Government continued to lead on mental health reform, with an additional $1.3 billion in mental health funding announced in the Budget, including funding for an additional 300 psychologists.
“Victoria’s years-long commitment to delivering on the Mental Health Royal Commission recommendations is a generational reform already saving lives, and it has national significance.
“From the school yard to our aged care homes, Australians are crying out for help, and the Victorian Government looks to be committed to tackling the issue head on”.
Dr Burgess noted that of the $1.3 billion invested, $490 million has been allocated for acute hospital care to reduce waiting times and $372 million in critical workforce initiatives.
“It doesn’t matter how good your programs are on paper if you don’t have the workforce to deliver them. The APS has long called on governments to strengthen the psychological workforce and ensure all Australians can access the expert care of a psychologist, when and where they need it.
“We are very pleased the Victorian Government has heeded our calls and committed to an additional 300 psychologists and more than 100 mental health beds. This investment has the potential to save lives and prevent years of pain and torment for families in Victoria.”
“We also note significant investments in patient care and system upgrades, which are vital in ensuring our mental health system can coordinate services effectively and treat people safely”.
Reflecting the Royal Commission’s recommendations to improve patient care and greater coordination among public and private service providers, more than $120 million will also be invested in improving safety in acute mental health intensive care areas for vulnerable patients and improving mental health information technology systems.
People living with eating disorders have also received a funding boost.
“The rate of anorexia among people experiencing depression and anxiety is 32 times higher than the general population. The government’s $20 million investment for people with eating disorders will help some of our most vulnerable people”.
“As we come out of the pandemic, we must not leave anyone behind.
“Amidst the pandemic and these uncertain times, it has never been more important for our State, Territory and Federal governments to invest in the mental health of our communities”.
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 Twitter: @AustPsych
The APS is the largest professional organisation for psychologists in Australia, representing more than 27,000 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.