Arabic version: خدمات الصحة النفسية في كوينزلاند تواجه أزمة تمويل

Queensland mental health community organisations are confronting a significant funding shortfall following last month’s state budget announcement. For the 2026-27 financial year, the indexation rate that determines funding for these organisations was set at 3.31 per cent. This figure does not align with the 4.75 per cent increase in minimum wages established by the Fair Work Commission, raising concerns about the sustainability of mental health services in the region. According to ABC News, the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health is urging the state government to reassess the indexation rate to prevent service cuts and longer wait times for those in need.

Belinda Chelius, chief executive of Eating Disorders Queensland, highlighted a 60 per cent increase in demand for their services since 2022. The organisation, which provides free support to those affected by eating disorders, currently has about 160 individuals on its waiting list for counselling. Chelius expressed concern that the funding shortfall could force the organisation to reduce its offerings, ultimately impacting clients’ access to essential mental health support.

Tanya O’Shea, acting board chair of the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health, emphasized that community providers cannot continue to absorb the costs associated with providing services at reduced rates. She noted that some organisations had plans to expand their services to weekends and public holidays but have since paused those initiatives due to the inadequate indexation rate. O’Shea warned that reduced services could lead to increased emergency department visits from individuals seeking urgent mental health support.

The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health has formally requested a review of the indexation rate from Treasurer David Janetzki, asserting that the government has the means to adjust funding to reflect inflation and wage growth. A spokesperson for the Treasurer stated that the methodology for calculating the NGO indexation rate has remained unchanged for the last two decades, indicating that any adjustments would require a significant policy shift. Community organisations continue to advocate for adequate funding to ensure they can meet the mental health needs of Queenslanders effectively.