“We welcome the Government’s focus and support strong collaboration and partnership between Federal, State and Territory Governments to ensure an integrated, working mental health system that truly meets the needs of patients and their families,” said Dr Judkins. “We ask that strong measures, targets and goals are introduced so there is clear accountability across all states and territories for the whole-of-system solutions needed to address Australia’s mental health crisis. “While the announcement is welcome, we remain concerned that as we await outcomes from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, and the Productivity Commission report into mental health, the system remains stretched. “While investment is needed and welcome, the number of patients languishing in EDs is increasing. Emergency Departments (EDs) often act as the front door to the country’s health and mental health system, with many turning to EDs for the help they cannot find elsewhere in the […]