Mental Health Funding Vital to 2021 Federal Budget

Australian medical students are hopeful for critical funding to mental health funding and training in tonight’s Federal Budget. 

 

“Medical students continue to be an at-risk population for suicide and poor mental health,” Sophie Keen, President of the Australian Medical Students’ Association (AMSA), said.

 

“The inclusion of funding for the Every Doctor, Every Setting: A National Framework for the first time in the Budget would demonstrate that the Federal Government is serious about tackling this issue.

 

“Additionally, we are anticipating that the Budget will include funding to Better Access, continuing the provision of 20 psychology sessions through Medicare to patients under a mental health care plan. This is crucial in combating the health and economic burden of mental ill health.

 

“As Australians continue to access mental health services in record numbers during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is paramount that the Government guarantee the availability of these services to all Australians by continuing their funding.”

 

AMSA provided two recommendations relating to mental health in their Pre-Budget Submission. These recommendations focused on investment in mental healthcare access for the general population, and training medical students to identify and respond to mental healthcare crises in themselves and others.

 

AMSA is the peak representative body for Australia’s 17,000 medical students. AMSA Mental Health provides resources to promote student wellbeing and promote mental health support services among students.