The APS is driven to advocate for equitable access to psychological services for all Australians. In 2019 this has been carried out via a range of activities – notably through over 50 submissions to government and via our representation on a wide range of influential advisory groups and committees.

Promoting the value of appropriate and effective psychological interventions

Mental health has been firmly on the agenda of governments this year – both at a federal and state/territory level. The APS has grasped this opportunity to engage with decision makers on the benefits of psychological interventions – and on service delivery and funding – to ensure equitable access.

An immeasurable amount of hours, research and consultation went into the APS’s advocacy work in 2019, with a particular focus on two large scale reviews of Australia’s mental health system undertaken by the Federal Government.

Highlights

The APS White Paper: The Future of Psychology in Australia was submitted in early June 2019, in response to the review of the Medicare Benefit Scheme. The White Paper is a blueprint for the Government to improve Medicare and the mental health system and makes 17 recommendations focusing on:

• increasing community access to, and affordability of, psychological services – notably through our call for an increase to 20 sessions from the current 10 sessions supported by Medicare, for all psychologists
• increasing treatment and care options
• reducing the burden that poor mental health creates for individuals, families, communities, governments and the economy.

The Australian Government announced in November 2018 that the Productivity Commission would undertake an investigation into the social and economic benefits of improving mental health. The APS Response to the Productivity Commission Inquiry into Mental Health, also submitted in June 2019, makes a range of recommendations, with priority given to prevention efforts, access, addressing services gaps, and workforce issues.

Expanding the profession’s reach and impact in the community

APS strategic advocacy and contribution to community wellbeing was supported through representation on a large number of influential advisory groups and committees. The APS voiced its expertise on a range of issues and areas where psychology plays a role.

Highlights

• National Aged Care Alliance
• Education Network
• Department of Veteran Affairs
• Department of Home Affairs Health Expert Advisory Group (HEAG)
• Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) Professions Reference Group
• Australian Digital Health Agency
• Department of Justice Victoria’s Work Development Permit Scheme