Demand for mental health care has never been greater. Almost one in two (43%) Australians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime, and mental health is now the number one reason Australians visit their GP.

However, in 2023–24, four in 10 people who needed a psychiatrist either delayed their appointment or did not see one at all. Too many Australians are falling through the cracks, travelling far from home for care, waiting months for treatment, or missing out on help altogether.

When people can't access the mental health care they need, the ripple effects hit our entire economy through reduced workforce participation, increased absenteeism, and higher healthcare costs. The Productivity Commission estimates that mental ill-health costs Australia's economy as much as $220 billion annually.

That is why mental health must be a priority at the upcoming economic roundtable.

The RANZCP has joined other peak mental health bodies in writing an open letter to the Federal Treasurer ahead of the economic summit, calling on the Albanese Government to:

• Coordinate a whole-of-government response to the mental health crisis, including developing national mental health targets
• Guarantee Australians equitable access to timely treatment and support by better funding community-based services
• Invest in education, training and workforce development to ensure adequate mental health professionals

Investment in mental health is not optional - it is essential. Without coordinated federal action, this crisis will only deepen.

You too can add your voice to the open letter: Open Letter - Australians for Mental Health.