Community Mental Health Australia (CMHA) has provided a submission to the Productivity Commission’s review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement.
The submission, made by CMHA CEO Kerry Hawkins, was developed in response to the Commission’s Interim Report and reflects a coordinated effort across the community-managed mental health sector. It draws on the collective insights of CMHA’s State and Territory Policy Officer Network, the CEOs of member organisations (where capacity allowed), and the national Lived Experience peak bodies, to ensure the sector’s diverse voices were captured and represented.
“This submission reflects the depth and breadth of our sector,” said Kerry Hawkins. “It was shaped through thoughtful engagement and collaboration, with a focus on highlighting both what’s working and what urgently needs attention.”
CMHA also engaged directly with Mental Health Australia (MHA) during the process, sharing reflections and identifying key points of alignment. While each organisation maintains its distinct perspective, the discussions reinforced the shared goal of strengthening the mental health system, especially through the inclusion of psychosocial supports.
The submission responds to the Interim Report with a clear message: the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement must deliver on its promise of genuine reform by recognising and investing in the full spectrum of supports needed, including those delivered by the community-managed sector.
“Our sector plays a unique and essential role,” Kerry said. “Psychosocial supports are not an add-on; they are a cornerstone of a system that genuinely meets people where they are. This review is an opportunity to get that right, structurally, sustainably, and for the long term.”
CMHA looks forward to continuing engagement with the Productivity Commission as the review progresses and urges all governments to act on recommendations that strengthen the role of community-managed services in supporting mental health and wellbeing across Australia.
You can download a copy of the Productivity Commission’s Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement Review Interim Report here.
You can download a copy of CMHA’s submission here.