Why community-based mental health programs need more funding
Mental health is an essential aspect of our well-being. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), over 2 in 5 Australians will experience a mental disorder at some time in their life.
Access to quality healthcare, including mental health services, consistently ranks in the top five concerns Australians face (IPSOS).
Community-based mental health programs are more than just support services; they play a crucial role in supporting individuals through mental health journey and are a lifeline for many.
These programs offer tailored support, addressing mental health needs in a way that is accessible and relevant to the people they serve.
Demand for mental health services outstrips supply
Wesley Mission Queensland (WMQ) is proud to provide a range of mental health support programs across Queensland, but we know demand is high and many are missing out on critical mental health services.
Despite the important role that community-based mental health services play, Queenslanders are struggling to access the help they need due to underfunding.
This shortfall in resources results in a significant gap in available services, leaving many without the opportunity to better their mental health.
WMQ’s General Manager of Mental Health, Emma Ashe says:
People are slipping through the gaps. As living costs rise, more individuals are seeking funded services because they simply cannot afford private options.
The importance of proper funding
Proper funding ensures that community-based mental health programs can provide timely and effective care. It also can ease the burden on emergency services by providing early intervention and preventive care, reducing the likelihood of more severe conditions developing.
Adequate funding also helps ensure that community programs can offer continuous care, promoting sustained recovery and well-being as mental health recovery is a long-term process that requires ongoing support.
Advocacy for increased funding
The need for mental health services consistently exceeds demand. WMQ has experienced this at our Gold Coast Mental Health Community Support Program. There is a gap between people eligible for brief mental health services and those eligible for ongoing support under the NDIS.
As living costs rise, more individuals are seeking funded services because they simply cannot afford private options. This increased demand is straining services. However, psychosocial support—practical assistance provided by staff who don't need to be trained clinicians—can help address this gap.
Enhanced psychosocial support is known to improve both mental health and overall wellbeing, demonstrating their close connection. Our Gold Coast Mental Health Community Support Program is awaiting more psychosocial funding to be realised by the state government, most likely after the election if we continue the call for more funding in this sector.
How you can advocate
With the upcoming state election, the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health (QAMH) is urging the government to increase funding for community-based mental health services.
Advocacy is a powerful tool for driving change. You can make a significant impact by urging your Member of Parliament (MP) to prioritise funding for community-based mental health programs.
By voicing your concerns and highlighting the importance of this issue, you help ensure that mental health services receive the attention and resources they desperately need.
QAMH ‘Fund Community Mental Health’ has a great tool you can use to discover who your local MP is and it even drafts an email for your to send to your local MP in support of increasing funding for community-based mental health supports. All you need to do is add your name, email and send!
You can also make a difference by spreading the word and encouraging friends, family, and your community to get involved. The more voices that join the call for action, the stronger the message will be.
Community-based mental health programs are vital to the well-being of many Queenslanders, yet it faces significant underfunding. By advocating for proper funding, you can help bridge the gap and ensure that those in need receive the support they deserve.
Your voice matters—take action today to help save lives and strengthen mental health services in Queensland. Together, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to the mental health support they need.
Take action, it only takes 1 minute
Tell the Queensland Government to increase funding for community based mental health services. Click on the button below.
Visit the QAMH website to advocate
