Media Release

5 April 2006

Mental health funding initiative welcome

The Australian Nursing Federation today welcomed Prime Minister John Howard’s announcement of $1.8 billion over 5 years in new funding for mental health services.

ANF federal secretary Jill Iliffe endorsed the initiative to fund mental health nurses to work with GPs and psychiatrists to improve the care and treatment of people with mental health issues.

‘Providing funds to allow nurses to work in collaboration with psychiatrists and GPs will allow a higher quality of care for people with mental health problems. Nurses are often the first port of call for people presenting to hospitals and community health centres. We are pleased that the Government has recognised the crucial role they play in caring for people with mental illness.’

Ms Iliffe said she hoped state and territory governments would respond to the announcement by committing a similar level of funds to ensure the provision of quality mental health services to all Australians.

‘This announcement provides a lead to the states and territories. We need a whole of government approach to mental health with adequate funding to provide the services on the ground. This requires a substantial commitment of funds and human resources across the board.’

Media inquiries
Jill Iliffe, Federal Secretary 0419 576 590
Ged Kearney, Assistant Federal Secretary 0417 053 322
Lani Stanistreet, Manager Communication & Journals 0414 471 339