IPSWICH is confronting a worsening mental health crisis, with 12 per cent of residents reporting a diagnosed mental health condition at the last Census.
Meanwhile, national advocates are calling for the Federal Government to appoint a dedicated Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing.
The renewed push comes amid alarming new research showing young Australians are experiencing suicidal thoughts, self-harm and suicide attempts at significantly higher rates – and at earlier ages – than previous generations.
A landmark study of more than 14,000 people found those aged 16 to 25 are far more likely to experience severe psychological distress, prompting urgent calls for a system-wide overhaul of how Australia responds to mental health.
Australians for Mental Health Executive Director Chris Gambian said the situation had deteriorated despite years of effort.
“After a decade of noble efforts to reduce distress among young people, the problem is getting worse,” he said.
“It is time for a radical overhaul of how we tackle the mental health crisis. That must start with good policy, placed as a top priority at the centre of government.”
Mr Gambian said mental health must be understood beyond clinical and diagnostic frameworks, shaped instead by broader social and economic conditions.
Australians for Mental Health argues a ministerial role within the Prime Minister’s department would enable stronger coordination across government, signalling that mental health is fundamental to national wellbeing and economic strength.
“We know mental health is influenced by so many factors – from family dynamics and housing security to relationships and access to services,” Mr Gambian said.
Key reforms being advocated include passing a national Wellbeing Act, and appointing a minister to drive a coordinated response.
Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann said the Government recognised the region’s challenges and was making record investments in mental health.
“We understand there are mental health challenges in the Ipswich region, which is why our government is making a record investment in mental health,” Mr Neumann said.
“Here in Ipswich, we opened the Medicare Mental Health Centre in the Nicholas Street Precinct … we also delivered more than $1 million to enhance and expand headspace Ipswich, and at the election I was proud to announce a new headspace for Redbank Plains, offering support to young people across our growing region.”
