On the 30 November 2021 the Queensland’s Health Minister Yvette D’Ath, announced a parliamentary inquiry into mental health. This inquiry has been welcomed by the sector and will look closely at the mental health system to identify long-term issues and demands as well as new concerns arising from COVID-19.

The Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Senior Leadership Group (with representatives from all HHSs) had the opportunity to hear directly from the Health Minister regarding the intent of this inquiry. She informed us that this inquiry is part of a bigger piece of work relating to the demands across the whole health system. The Minister stated that funding models alone will not address the system issues. She wants to see a more sustainable and efficient system – but acknowledged, there have been many efficiencies already achieved.

The inquiry will hear from many stakeholders, including those with lived experience. Whilst there will inevitably be those who have had negative experiences or who have lost loved ones, the inquiry’s focus will be on system improvement through innovative models, programs that are currently working, and what we need more of. There will also be a separate inquiry looking at the primary and allied health system to consider what the issues and opportunities are in these sectors.

The terms of reference are broad reaching and there will be eight members of the Legislative Assembly who will make up the Mental Health Select Committee. Health services will have the opportunity to present to the inquiry as well as submit a report due by the end of May 2022.