14 November 2025: Two international leaders in mental health training have joined forces in a landmark partnership to expand an internationally recognised, evidence-based program to Australian workplaces in 2026.
Mental Health First Aid International (MHFAI) and Opening Minds, an initiative off the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC), are working together to bring The Working Mind (TWM) to Australia – a program proven to shift attitudes, behaviours and cultures around mental health in the workplace.
Angus Clelland, MHFAI CEO, says the organisation is delighted to be working alongside the Mental Health Commission of Canada to adapt The Working Mind for Australia.
“With workplaces under increasing pressure, supporting staff mental health and wellbeing must be a top priority. As a global health promotion charity with 25 years of leadership in evidence-based mental health training, we’ve seen firsthand the difference practical, workplace-focused programs can make.
“Building on the success of the Commission’s leadership in developing and delivering this program alongside their MHFA offering in Canada, this partnership will ensure Australian workplaces, too, have access to a continuum of mental health support and education.
“The introduction addresses market needs for a comprehensive solution with ‘upstream’ skills and tools provided by The Working Mind in tandem with the ‘downstream’ skills learned in MHFA. Combined with shorter, flexible program options the program portfolio can reach more staff, equipping them with practical skills to manage their own mental health and help them create resilient, supportive teams – free from stigma,” Mr Clelland adds.
Lili-Anna Pereša, PCEO, Mental Health Commission of Canada, says: “This partnership presents an exciting step forward for both the Commission and Mental Health First Aid International. By collaborating with global leaders who share our vision, we can ensure that proven mental health initiatives become more accessible in workplaces and communities around the world.”
The program is currently being localised for Australian audiences. Instructor training is commencing in late 2025, with The Working Mind course becoming available for delivery in workplaces in early 2026.
About The Working Mind
The Working Mind is an evidence-based program designed to reduce stigma, improve mental health literacy, and foster adaptive coping and resilience in workplace settings. It equips leaders and employees alike with practical strategies to support themselves and one another. The design of the program allows for customizations and adaptations across sectors, and countries. With over 350K participants trained and counting, The Working Mind is creating the foundation needed to advance mental health.
About The Mental Health Commission of Canada and Opening Minds
Opening Minds, an initiative of the Mental Health Commission of Canada, is a leading provider of evidence-based training programs that promote mental wellness, reduce stigma, and strengthen psychological health and safety across workplaces and communities.
As a trusted partner of Mental Health First Aid International, Opening Minds delivers MHFA as part of its workplace solutions, showing how MHFA and The Working Mind work hand-in-hand to equip teams with practical skills, build resilience, and foster psychologically safer workplaces.
For more information about The Working Mind in Canada, visit The Working Mind – Opening Minds – Workplace Mental Health Training, or contact cscanlan@openingminds.org
About Mental Health First Aid International
Mental Health First Aid Australia is a global health promotion charity dedicated to the provision of evidence-based and informed programs. It aims to increase mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and help people develop the skills to encourage people to seek professional help.
