Final hearing focussed on women's mental health

THE House Select Committee on Mental Health and Suicide Prevention will hold its final public hearing via videoconference on Friday, August 27, 2021, with a focus on the mental health concerns and systems that impact women.

From September 6-10 2021 is Women’s Health Week, a nation-wide campaign of events and online activities dedicated to all women across Australia to make good health a priority.

Chair, Fiona Martin MP, said, "The committee commends the work of Jean Hailes in continuing Women’s Health Week. When we support women in accessing mental health care, as and when they need it, we improve women's overall health, boost women’s participation in the workforce, and support Australian families.

"Women experience depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders at higher rates than men. The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a rise in self-harm, particularly by young women. It is important that the committee hears from organisations that support women’s voices," Dr Martin said.

"Prevention and early intervention activities need to be tailored to at-risk demographics, with a whole-of-lifespan approach, starting at birth with perinatal care for mothers and babies, right through to menopause and beyond."

In its final public hearing, Jean Hailes of PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia), women from the Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Cultural Centre, Women’s Mental Health Alliance, Women’s Health Victoria, and the Women’s Mental Health Service will contribute to the committee’s evidence base. This will ensure a comprehensive understanding of the factors impacting women’s access to mental health and suicide prevention services.

The final report of the committee is due to be presented by November 1, 2021.

Public hearing details

Date: Friday 27 August 2021

Time: 2pm to 5pm AEST

The public hearing program will be available on the committee website. Due to the public hearings being held by videoconference, public access will be available via the live broadcast at aph.gov.au/live.

The Committee is unable to intervene or provide advice in relation to individual circumstances. If you are in immediate danger, please contact 000. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact one of the services below:

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

ends