National Mental Health Policy 2008

The Australian Health Ministers have just announced the launch of the National Mental Health Policy 2008.
"The policy represents a renewed commitment by all health ministers and ministers with responsibility for mental health to the continual improvement of Australia's mental health system. It works towards ensuring that Australia has a mental health system that detects and intervenes early in illness, promotes recovery, and ensures that all Australians with a mental illness have access to effective and appropriate treatment and community supports to enable them to participate in the community fully. It also recognises that certain groups in the community, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, homeless and disadvantaged people, those exposed to traumatic events, and those with serious or chronic health problems are at heightened risk of mental health problems and mental illness.