The Australian Government welcomes the final report of the Productivity Commission's Review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, tabled in parliament and released publicly today, and thanks the commission for their work in undertaking the review.
The government also acknowledges and thanks the many people who have shared their stories and insights in contributing to the review findings.
The review provides a comprehensive and independent assessment of the current agreement. It identifies areas for improvement and sets out 24 recommendations to strengthen the mental health and suicide prevention systems across Australia.
The report highlights the need for further work to realise the goals of the National Agreement and to better meet the needs of individuals, families and communities experiencing mental health challenges. The government acknowledges there are improvements to be made to national service systems and how we address gaps and changing needs.
The government is committed to working with states and territories, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stakeholders, the mental health and suicide prevention sectors and people with lived experience to consider the review's findings and shape future arrangements.
Minister Butler will bring the report to the next Health Ministers' Meeting and the next joint Health and Mental Health Ministers' Meeting to begin discussions on future arrangements that delivers real reform and meaningful outcomes for Australians.
The National Agreement is one part of the Commonwealth's broader investment in mental health.
In 2025-26, the government is investing around $7.8 billion in mental health and suicide prevention, alongside a $1.1 billion election commitment to expand free mental health services across the country.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"I welcome the Productivity Commission's final report and thank Commissioners Selwyn Button and Angela Jackson for their work reviewing the National Agreement.
"This is an opportunity to reset and get this right. We must amplify the voices of people with lived experience and ensure future arrangements present a clear, long-term vision for improving mental health outcomes and reducing suicide.
"I look forward to discussing the report with health ministers in December and progressing development of a new agreement."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister Emma McBride:
"I want to acknowledge the many people from the mental health and suicide prevention sectors and people with lived experience who generously shared their stories, insights and expertise throughout the review process. Your voices have helped shape a clearer path forward.
"The review reaffirms the progress made over the past three years, including the development of national strategies and governance structures that embed lived experience. But it also makes clear that more must be done to meet the needs of Australians experiencing mental health challenges.
"We are committed to working with all partners to deliver the reform our communities deserve."
