Despite investments made to broadly enhance mental health support for Australians, a stronger focus on the psychology workforce and psychological services is required.
The Australian Psychological Society (APS) has criticised this week's Budget saying much more investment is needed to overcome the challenges facing the community and the psychology sector.
"The community wants more investment in psychology services right now, and this week's Budget falls short of that," says APS President Dr Catriona Davis-McCabe.
Recent research conducted by the APS found that levels of mental health challenges are growing in our community, particularly for younger Australians. Rates of psychological distress in 15-24 year-olds increased from 18.4% in 2011 to 42.3% in 2021.
"This is a point in our nation's history when we need to double down on psychological support and investment in order to create a mentally resilient community," she says. "This is especially true of our young people, who are carrying the burden of emotionally complex situations, such as global conflicts, increasing acts of violence in our communities and the far-reaching impacts of climate change."
APS will continue to advocate for a 'youth safety net' to Medicare
