AIDA welcomes Federal Labor’s pledge of $1 billion support for mental health care Primary Health Care Funding in Budget
The commitment by Labor of $1 billion funding to expand affordable mental health services across Australia is welcomed by the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA), the national peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors and medical students.
We also acknowledge the Coalition’s pledge of $400 million for youth mental health services and to reinstate the 20 Medicare-funded psychology sessions.
Strong mental health and social and emotional welling for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are key priorities for AIDA.
This landmark expansion of access to mental health services across the country will ensure that more Australians receive the help that they need.
“These significant funding pledges will contribute to improving access to mental health services for First Nations people, in particular in regional areas where access is limited,” said Dr Jonathan Newchurch, AIDA President.
“However, we must keep working on First Nations led multifaceted approach that also focuses on prevention and addressing the social factors, such as housing, education and family services, which are key determinants of social and emotional wellbeing.”
AIDA acknowledges that $24.7 million funding was provided in the recent Budget for social and emotional wellbeing, plus mental health, to invest in supports for First Nations families and Communities to manage significant trauma.
We hope that these commitments will contribute towards the reduction of suicide rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which is one of the Close the Gap targets.
Alongside this much-needed expansion of mental health services, AIDA will continue to advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people having increased access to culturally safe healthcare services.
ENDS
About AIDA
The Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) is the peak professional body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors and medical students. AIDA’s purpose is to strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce, from students to specialists, through advocacy, leadership, and cultural mentorship. We also continue to work towards and advocate for a culturally safe Australian healthcare system, free from racism, and with accountability measures in place.
Our vision is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have self-determination and equitable health and life outcomes in a culturally safe health system.
09 Apr 2025
Media Release