Research into the sector
The Pathways to mental wellbeing report examines Queensland's community mental health sector and identifies opportunities to strengthen its future.
The report was developed with the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health. It was informed by research undertaken by Griffith University and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute.
The research explored:
- the strengths of the sector
- challenges facing organisations
- opportunities for improvement
- priorities for future reform.
Why community mental health organisations matter
Community mental health organisations play an important role in supporting people experiencing mental ill-health and distress. They provide services in local communities and help people stay connected to family, friends and support networks.
These organisations complement clinical mental health services by providing practical, social and recovery-focused support.
Supporting a more community-based mental health system
The research supports efforts to build a mental health system that focuses on wellbeing, recovery and community-based support.
It aligns with our vision in Shifting minds: The Queensland Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, and Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan. It aims to strengthen community-based mental health services and supports.
Key findings
The research found that community mental health organisations provide valuable support and improve outcomes for many people experiencing mental ill-health.
Challenges facing the sector
The sector faces several ongoing challenges, including:
- insecure funding
- a complex service system
- unequal access to services across Queensland
- stigma and discrimination
- strict eligibility criteria for, and limited recognition of, non-clinical support services
- workforce shortages and a need to strengthen workforce capability
- barriers to accessing services
- a lack of culturally appropriate services.
The research also found that organisations want stronger partnerships with people who have lived-living experience of mental ill-health and their families, carers and supporters.
Strengths of the sector
People with lived-living experience, carers, supporters and sector staff identified several strengths:
- a shared commitment to improving wellbeing
- strong community connections
- the sector's ability to connect people with health and community services.
Priorities for strengthening the sector
The report outlines a 5 year roadmap for strengthening the sector. Key priorities include:
- improving sector visibility and recognition
- increasing lived-living experience leadership
- strengthening joint planning and commissioning
- shifting the focus to early intervention and prevention
- strengthening evidence-based practice and evaluation
- improving integration and coordination across services
- reforming funding models
- supporting workforce development, worker wellbeing and employment conditions
- expanding innovative community-based approaches.