Senior leaders from across health, policy, clinical, provider, consumer and insurance perspectives gathered at the National Press Club of Australia this week for the Reimagining Mental Health Care Roundtable.
The cross-sector discussion on the future of mental health care in Australia built on analysis developed by HCF and Nous Group, which found access to private mental health care is narrowing, while the people seeking care are presenting with increasingly complex needs. The evidence also highlighted growing workforce and capacity constraints across the mental health system.
Participants discussed barriers to accessing mental health care, increasing care complexity, workforce and capacity constraints, and opportunities to better connect care across public, private, primary and community settings.
HCF CEO and Managing Director Lorraine Thomas said the discussion highlighted the value of bringing together people from across the system to better understand the challenges facing Australians seeking mental health support.
"Too many Australians are struggling to access mental health support when they need it. When care is delayed, fragmented or unaffordable, the consequences are felt by individuals and families, as well as across communities, workplaces and the broader health system.
"Mental health care spans public, private, primary care and community services. No single organisation can solve this alone, which is why conversations like this matter.
"As Australia's largest not-for-profit health insurer, we see how these pressures affect people at different stages of their healthcare journey. Building a health system that can meet Australia's needs will require evidence, collaboration and a willingness to work together on practical solutions.
"What emerged from the discussion was a shared commitment to improving mental health care and a recognition that progress will depend on organisations working together across the system."
HCF Chief Officer, Member Health Julie Andrews said supporting members through their mental health journey remains a key priority for HCF.
"We know mental health concerns can affect people at many stages of life, and getting the right support at the right time is important for better outcomes.
"For many people, the challenge isn't just accessing care. It's knowing where to start, navigating different parts of the system and finding support that meets their needs.
"Discussions like this help build a better understanding of the barriers people face and where there may be opportunities to improve how care is experienced and connected."
