First public hearing for mental health inquiry

THE House Select Committee on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention is commencing public hearings with the first taking place in Canberra on March 18, 2021.

The committee will hear from the Productivity Commission, the National Mental Health Commission and the Department of Health on current mental health and suicide prevention strategies grounded by the extensive research these organisations have already undertaken.

Chair of the committee, Fiona Martin MP, said, "This hearing is an opportunity for the committee to hear from the leading government departments and agencies driving the mental health policy agenda.

"We want to have a productive discussion about what has been successful, and where there could be improvements, to ensure that the right actions are being taken to achieve increased personal outcomes for those suffering from mental health difficulties and workers."

This hearing is the first of several expected to be held for the inquiry between now and when the committee presents its final report. Dr Martin said, "The committee will use the evidence from this hearing to shape the Interim Report and the second phase of the inquiry, which will inform the final recommendations due in November."

Public hearing details

Date: Thursday 18 March 2021
Time: 10:15am to 11:45pm AEDT

Location: Main Committee Room, Parliament House, Canberra

The hearing will be broadcast live at aph.gov.au/live and the public hearing program will be available at the committee website prior to the hearing.

The committee is unable to intervene or provide advice in relation to individual circumstances. Help is available at:

Lifeline Australia 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back 1300 659 467
Kids Help Line 1800 551 800
BeyondBlue 1300 224 636
eheadspace 1800 650 890

ends