CEO Update: National Carers Week 2024 – It’s time to show them we care
16 October 2024
CEO Message
CEO Update: National Carers Week 2024 – It’s time to show them we care
National Carers Week is a time to recognise and celebrate the more than three million people in Australia who are unpaid carers.
The theme this year is ‘Show them you care’, with the aim to raise awareness of the family and friends – the one in eight people in Australia – who care for people with living or lived experience of mental ill-health, disability, chronic illness, substance-related issues, or the aged.
Carers Australia’s 2024 Carer Wellbeing Survey shows that carers are three times as likely to report being lonely compared to non-carers, have higher than average rates of psychological distress compared to the general population, and consistently experience poorer financial wellbeing.
In addition to supporting people, our carers also play a critical role in improving mental
health outcomes for all people in Australia, through their advocacy for system reform.
Along with lived experience and carer advocates, Mental Health Australia has been calling for the establishment of independent lived experience and carer peak bodies for a long time.
This year, a new, independent, national mental health carers family and kin peak body has been established to support families, carers and kin to shape the policies and programs that affect them.
The establishment of this new peak body through Mental Health Carers Australia is a significant evolution in carer advocacy in Australia. We’re looking forward to continuing to work with Mental Health Carers Australia in this role.
This will build on the significant legacy of others, including the National Mental Health Consumer and Carer Forum and National Register of Mental Health Consumer and Carer Representatives, who have demonstrated incredible leadership influencing systemic national mental reform to better acknowledge the role of carers and the importance of adopting a relational approach.
Supporting the mental health and wellbeing of carers is critical at any time, particularly during challenging times like these.
This is an important week to recognise and celebrate our mental health carers for the incredible support they provide, from our classrooms to our homes and workplaces.
Let’s come together to recognise, celebrate and thank them for the incredible work
they do – and show them we care.
Carolyn Nikoloski
CEO, Mental Health Australia
The diary next week
- Today, I am speaking at the Psychosis Australia and Mindgardens Symposium 'Insight to Impact: translating psychosis research into practice and policy'.
- Tomorrow, I am meeting with two member organisations: LGBTQI+ Health Australia and The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.
- On Friday I am meeting with the National Mental Health Consumer and Carer Forum Co-Chairs, and the National Mental Health Consumer Alliance and Mental Health Carers Australia.
- On Monday, I am meeting with Professor Frank Oberklaid AM, then meeting with two of our member organisations, the Australian Association of Social Workers, and Gayaa Dhuwi.
- On Tuesday, I am meeting with another member, the Black Dog Institute.
2024 Grace Groom Memorial Oration
Join Mental Health Australia for a very special evening on 12 November at the State Library in Melbourne.
Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia will deliver this year's Grace Groom Memorial Oration, speaking on the vital significance of mentally healthy communities. Her Excellency will share her insights on mental health, sustainability, gender equality, and corporate governance across diverse domains – along with her recent appointment as the Governor-General.
Register your attendance for the Grace Groom Memorial Oration, including group bookings, here.
Discounted tickets are available to Mental Health Australia Member organisations and reduced ticket prices for groups of 10.
For further information please email events@mhaustralia.org or phone 02 6285 3100.
RSVPs close COB Monday 21 October.
Call for Mental Health Australia Board Director nominations
Delegates of Full Members of Mental Health Australia Ltd are invited to nominate for a Director’s position on the Board.
All nominations and supporting material must be sent to governance@mhaustralia.org and received by 9.00am AEDT Monday 21 October 2024. Nominations submitted late or with missing information will not be accepted. If you have not received a reply email confirming your nomination has been received within 2 business days please phone the Mental Health Australia Office on (02) 6285 3100.
If you have any queries about the nomination process, or to check a Full Member organisation’s eligibility to nominate, please contact the Mental Health Australia Office on (02) 6285 3100 or email governance@mhaustralia.org.
Mental Health Australia Chair recruitment
Mental Health Australia is seeking a Board Appointed Director to take on the role of Chair who can devote the time and be committed to this important health leadership position. For over 25 years Mental Health Australia has advocated for mental health reform and continues to drive policy changes and proactively puts mental health on the agenda.
Mental Health Australia has engaged Fisher Leadership to undertake this nationwide recruitment. This appointment is for three years in the first instance. Applications close on 20 October 2024.
Enquiries can be directed to Kate Wheeler, Fisher Leadership, 1300 347 437 or click the button below for further information and application details.
Mental Health News
Meaningful connections take centre stage on World Mental Health Day
On World Mental Health Day, Mental Health Australia urged policymakers to recognise that meaningful connections are critical to mental health. 10 October is not just a date on the calendar. It’s an opportunity to spotlight mental health, challenge stigma, and push for real change.
Meaningful connections matter for Mental Health Day in Mount Isa
For this year's World Mental Health Day, two Mount Isa men shared their mental health journey. Shane Butler and Derrick Cusack have both had mental health battles but the two men were able to overcome their struggles.
Breaking the facade: Nic Steepe's silent struggle to embrace self care
Imagine a dark cloud looming over your head, casting a constant shadow of doubt and fear – dampening your spirit and shrouding every facet of your existence. This is how Nic Steepe felt while suffering in silence, putting on a facade to mask a sense of isolation, fear and confusion.
Transcript: Radio interview with Federal Health Minister Mark Butler, ABC Sydney Breakfast, 10th October 2024
The Hon. Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health, discusses mental health and social media on World Mental Health Day.
Keep connected this Veteran's Health Week
This year's theme for Veterans' Health Week is 'Keep Connected', which highlights the importance of staying socially connected to family, friends and peers.
Dementia set to become Australia's leading cause of death, cementing need for investment
Dementia Australia says the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics highlights the urgent reality of dementia in Australia, revealing dementia is set to become the nation's leading cause of death.
Read the media release at the button below.
Urgent expansion of services needed for people with psychosocial disabilities at risk of homelessness
Homelessness Australia says a shocking number of Australians with psychosocial disabilities are struggling with unmet housing and support needs, prompting calls for an urgent expansion of services. People with psychosocial disability, cognitive impairments and complex behaviours are among the fastest-growing groups of users of homelessness services.
SA Government announces more support for children with autism (SA)
Following the initial success of Autism Inclusion Teachers (AITs) in public primary schools, the Malinauskas Labor Government has introduced a pilot program to build autism inclusion in secondary schools that will trial three models of support particularly focused on supporting autistic students as they transition to high school.
SA students to learn about dangers of social media (SA)
South Australian schools will deliver an evidence-based program focused on preventing or mitigating issues associated with online safety, cyberbullying, body image, mental health and wellbeing.
Grants to support Victoria's carers (VIC)
Victorian Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence announced the recipients of the 2024 Connecting Carers in their Community program grants at an event celebrating National Carers Week. The program provides grants of between $15,000 and $25,000 to grassroots and community groups for activities that help carers with social connection, wellbeing and achieving their personal goals.
Boosting capacity of community mental health services (VIC)
The Allan Labor Government says it continues to boost the capacity of community mental health services with seven services receiving funding through the $33.4 million Community Mental Health Expansion Program aimed at strengthening community mental health services and addressing service gaps identified by the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System.
Accreditation boosts support for carers in the workplace (NSW)
NSW Minister with responsibility for Carers Jodie Harrison says this National Carers Week the Minns Labor Government is encouraging workplaces to take up accreditation under the Carers + Employers program, to help more carers enter the workforce and ensure those already employed are provided with appropriate support.
Karratha's new mental healthcare facility takes step forward (WA)
The Cook Government has released the construction tender for Karratha's Step Up/Step Down service. Located close to the town centre on Gregory Way, once operational the facility will provide psychosocial and clinical support services to help people manage their mental health and wellbeing. Designed as a homely setting, it will feature six residential units, areas for group activities, communal spaces and staff facilities. Richmond Wellbeing will lead the support service, in partnership with Hope Community Services. WA Country Health Service will provide clinical support services such as counselling and therapies.
Celebrating WA Mental Health Awards finalists on World Mental Health Day (WA)
Mental Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson says nearly 30 individuals, organisations, schools, service providers and workplaces have been recognised as finalists in the 2024 WA Mental Health Awards. This year's theme of World Mental Health Day is 'It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace'.
Mental Health Opportunities and Resources
Update on National Disability Insurance Scheme changes
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has provided the following information to help keep the community up to date on changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Changes to NDIS Supports
The Australian Parliament has passed changes to the NDIS Act 2013. This means there will be changes to the NDIS in the coming weeks and months. The NDIA will provide the latest information about what is changing and when on the NDIS website.
One change already affecting all NDIS participants is what supports and services participants can purchase with NDIS funding. Since 3 October 2024, there has been a new definition of NDIS supports. This means participants must only use their NDIS funding to purchase items on the list of approved NDIS supports. There is also a list of items that NDIS funding cannot be used on.
The lists are on the NDIS website:
NDIS Supports – what if you purchase the wrong supports?
To give people time to adjust and learn what’s in the NDIS supports list, there is a 12 month transition period. After that 12 month period, the NDIA will be able to ask participants and providers to repay funding used to purchase non-NDIS supports. For the next 12 months, the NDIA won’t raise a debt if a participant makes a mistake and purchases a non-NDIS support for the first or second mistakes or if the support is worth less than $1,500.
This transition period is 30 days for providers. The transition period doesn’t apply if a participant purchases illegal items with funding from their NDIS plan. If someone makes repeated or fraudulent claims, the NDIA will take further action.
NDIS Supports – replacement supports
There is also a list of items you can ask to purchase with your NDIS funding instead of a NDIS support. You can view the list of replacement supports here: Our Guidelines – What does NDIS fund? On that page, there is also a guide to how to apply for a replacement support. Participants can ask the NDIA for a replacement support by filling out an application form and submitting it to the NDIA. You can download the application form at that ‘What does NDIS fund’ page linked above.
If you ask for a replacement support and the NDIA does not approve it, you can’t ask for that replacement support again for 12 months.
Department of Social Services consultation on Foundational Supports
Governments are working together to design and deliver additional supports for people with disability outside the NDIS. These are called Foundational Supports.
The Government wants to hear from people with disability, families, carers, and the disability sector to design these additional supports. The Minister for Social Services, The Hon. Amanda Rishworth MP, announced that consultation has now commenced: Department of Social Services – Consultation on Foundational Supports for Australians with disability (external).
You can take part in a number of ways:
- by attending an online session
- adding to the Department of Social Services – Ideas Wall (external)
- by completing an online questionnaire or submission.
If you haven't already, you can subscribe to the Foundational Supports newsletter to receive updates on consultations by emailing Foundational.Supports@dss.gov.au and requesting to be added to the mailing list.
Consultation on National Disability Insurance Scheme pricing
The National Disability Insurance Scheme Review recommended that the Australian Government should transition responsibility for advising on National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) pricing to the Independent Health and Aged Care Pricing Authority (IHACPA) (see Action 11.3). The Australian Government is yet to outline whether it will or will not implement this recommendation.
IHACPA is now running consultations seeking feedback from the community on NDIS Pricing. IHACPA wants to hear about what to consider in pricing the NDIS, how pricing approaches can best operate, and what does and doesn’t work.
IHACPA is looking to hear from NDIS participants, family, carers and supporters, providers, workers and representative organisations. You can find out more about taking part on the IHACPA website:
- online or in-person workshop
- online submission
- answer a list of questions
- share your ideas in Easy Read.
You can also learn more about IHACPA’s work on exploring opportunities for NDIS pricing reform on the IHACPA website at the button below.
Revamped online resource library for mental health families, carers and kin
HelpingMinds is excited to announce the launch of the revamped online resource library by Mental Health Carers Australia.
This free, redesigned library features a fresh look and improved accessibility, making it easier than ever for carers and professionals working in carer-inclusive practice to find the support they need. The updated library includes a wealth of resources, such as:
- Practical tools and guidance: User-friendly tools designed to assist carers in their daily roles.
- Articles, fact sheets, and training modules: Stay informed and equipped with the latest information.
- Collaborative resources: Discover materials to enhance your collaboration with families and carers.
Explore the new library and access these free resources at the button below.
New resource for psychological safety in mental health workplaces
In recognition of Mental Health Month and World Mental Health Day, the Mental Health Coordinating Council has launched a set of practical guides to support Psychological Safety in Mental Health Organisations, where everyone can feel empowered to speak up in the workplace without fear of negative consequences.
Read more at the link below.
SANE: Share your experiences of finding and accessing mental health care in Australia and help to shape a better future
Contribute to a mental health system that better serves our community’s needs by sharing your experiences finding and accessing mental health care in Australia. Whether you've sought care, supported someone to find or access care (personally or professionally), or work in the mental health sector – your insights are invaluable (plus, you'll have the chance to win one of fiven$100 Giftpay vouchers). This survey is being conducted as part of a project commissioned by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care to develop options to support people finding and accessing mental health care. Learn more here.
Access the survey at the button below.
Abstract submissions for the Australia Pacific Autism Conference 2025 are open
Individuals and organisations from across the Autism community are invited to submit their abstracts for the Australia Pacific Autism Conference 2025.This is a chance for researchers, practitioners, educators, physicians, policymakers, Autistic people and their families to present research and best practice approaches in the field of Autism. The 2025 conference theme is Creating and Inspiring the Future Together.
Mind Medicine Australia: Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies
Mind Medicine Australia is offering a Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies. The course will equip qualified clinicians with the essential skills and awareness needed to safely and successfully facilitate psychedelic-assisted therapies. Join world-renowned experts including Professor David Nutt (UK), Dr. Bessel van der Kolk (USA), Dr. Gabor Maté (CANADA), Dr. Rick Doblin (USA), Dr. Lauren McDonald (UK), Dr. Tirzah Firestone (USA), Dr. Eli Kotler to advance your professional journey, explore the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies and lead the way in healing those in need.
The first intake of 2025 begins on 16 February. Spaces are strictly limited and filling fast.
Learn more at the button below, or contact Mind Medicine Australia on 03 8679 6015.
Invitation to the Kip Enderby Memorial Lecture 2024: Dismantling systemic racism – perspectives from First Nations peoples
The Australian Human Rights Commission invites you to attend this year’s free online Kip Enderby Memorial Lecture on Friday 1 November. CEO of First Nations Collective Marni Tuala will deliver this year's oration, and share the findings of extensive consultations with First Nations peoples across Australia about their experiences of racism and recommendations for systemic change.
Read more at the button below.
Queensland Mental Health Commission Leading Reform Summit 2024
Join the conversation about reform: Sofitel Brisbane Central, 27th - 28th November, 2024
The Leading Reform Summit is the Queensland Mental Health Commission's annual two-day forum for leaders in Queensland's mental health, alcohol and other drugs, suicide prevention and associated human services sectors. It's a forum for leaders, people with lived and living experience, carers, frontline clinicians and workers, service providers, policy-makers, funders, planners and decision-makers.
Places are limited. Register at the button below to avoid missing out.
Australian Government tender opportunity: Advice on mental health models of care for young people
The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has released a Request for Tender for Provision of Sector-Led Advice on New and/or Refined Models of Care for Mental Health Services for Young People. The Department is seeking responses by 18 October 2024, with delivery timeframe December 2024 - July 2025. Further information is available at the AusTender website at the button below.
Australian Government grant opportunity forecast: Competitive Digital Mental Health Program
The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care has forecast an opportunity for grant funding through the Digital Mental Health Program, and released draft Grant Guidelines. The grant is intended to enable all people living in Australia to access mental health supports via digital channels at a time and place that suits them. The estimated period of release is from July - December 2024, with funding provided from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2028 across three activity streams.
Read more at the GrantConnect website at the button below.
Help improve professional development for the youth mental health workforce
Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, is seeking to understand the learning needs of the youth mental health workforce in a short survey.
Mental health professionals who work with young people aged 12 to 25 are invited to help shape the future of professional development in youth mental health in The THRIVE Project: Exploring self-directed learning in youth mental health workforce survey. Survey participants can also win a $100 gift voucher.
The survey closes 25 January 2025 and can be accessed at the button below.
Training: Blue Knot Foundation – Managing Wellbeing and Recognising Vicarious Trauma
Blue Knot Foundation is offering individual training in Managing Wellbeing and Recognising Vicarious Trauma, exploring the nature, dynamics and risks of vicarious trauma and supporting you to stay healthy and safe in your work.
Find out more at the button below.
2024 Synergy in Care: The "Better Together" Primary Healthcare Summit, Thursday 24th October 6:15pm - 9:00pm
The Sydney North Healthcare Network invites you to an evening of engaging and thought-provoking conversations with influential healthcare leaders. An expert panel will discuss what an integrated, place-based and person-centred approach to healthcare can look like.
Learn more at the button below.
2024 Rural Mental Health Conference
Cairns, Queensland 6-8 November: mark the dates in your calendar now for this year’s Rural Mental Health Conference.
This event is the place to be if you work in mental or allied health within rural and remote communities or with companies that support better mental health outcomes for rural communities.
Register now for the 10th International Conference on Social Work in Health and Mental Health
Spanning three days across 19 - 22 November, the Conference main program will be offered over eleven concurrent streams each day. The diverse range of topics covered in each stream will explore the intersection between social workers and Health and Mental Health care.
Blending keynote and featured speakers, plenary and concurrent sessions and workshops, the Conference program will bring forward new concepts, discuss existing practices and give attendees the most up to date subject knowledge available.
Occupational Therapy Australia’s OT Mental Health Forum 2024
Occupational Therapy Australia’s (OTA) OT Mental Health Forum 2024, taking place on Thursday 28 and Friday 29 November in Melbourne and the program is now live!
OTA and our Forum Committee have put together an exciting, varied program that spans two full days.
With inspiring keynote speakers, panel sessions, ePosters, workshops and more, this is an inspiring program with something for everyone working in mental health occupational therapy.
Explore the full program here: https://www.otausevnts.com.au/cmspreview/mentalhealthforum2024/program-agenda
Don’t forget to use #MHF24 hashtag and tag Occupational Therapy Australia!
Job vacancies: Office of the Chief Psychiatrist, Department of Health and Aged Care
The Office of the Chief Psychiatrist in the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Division of the Department of Health and Aged Care is seeking experienced mental health clinicians with a good understanding of multidisciplinary models of care, safety and quality and workforce capabilities for two non-ongoing, 12 month positions.
Applications close on 21 October 2024 at 11:30pm AEDT.
Featured Members
LGBTIQ+ Health Australia is the national peak health organisation in Australia for organisations and individuals that provide health-related programs, services and research focused on lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer people and other sexuality and gender diverse (LGBTIQ+) people and communities. We recognise that people’s genders, bodies, relationships and sexualities affect their health and wellbeing in every domain of their life.
Mind Medicine Australia exists to help alleviate the suffering and suicides caused by mental illness in Australia through expanding the treatment options available to medical practitioners and their patients. We will establish safe and effective psychedelic-assisted treatments to treat a range of mental illnesses.
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