Australians for Mental Health is calling on the federal government to appoint a dedicated Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, citing new research showing young Australians are more likely to report suicidal thoughts and self-harm than older generations.
The group wants the role based within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to coordinate a whole-of-government response.
It follows a University of Melbourne study of more than 14,000 Australians, which found people aged 16 to 25 were more likely than older cohorts to report suicidal thoughts, self-harm and suicide attempts, with behaviours emerging earlier in life.
Australians for Mental Health executive director Chris Gambian said the findings showed the situation was worsening despite years of efforts to reduce distress among young people.
“Mental health is not just about a clinical diagnosis and treatment through the medical system,” he said.
“Keeping Australians mentally well means getting serious about the levers that sit outside the health system, including areas such as employment, housing, education, community and connection.”
The advocacy group last month released research showing 59 per cent of Australians believe the nation is facing a mental health crisis requiring urgent action, while 76 per cent believe it can be fixed with the right investment and leadership.
Australians for Mental Health is also calling for a Wellbeing Act, and an independent Mental Health and Wellbeing Commissioner to hold government to account.
Support is available through Lifeline on 13 11 14.
