14 May 2026: Leading health promotion charity Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) International has welcomed the Albanese Government’s 2026–27 Federal Budget, which will see $277.5 million invested over 12 months to extend the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement and maintain continuity of supports across Australia.
MHFA International CEO Angus Clelland said the investment reflects a commitment to system stability while continuing to build national resilience in a challenging social and economic environment.
“We welcome the Government’s focus on resilience and reform, particularly in the context of ongoing cost-of-living pressures, housing, employment, productivity and small business support,” Mr Clelland said.
“Economic conditions and housing are key social determinants of mental health. Measures to address these will have a protective effect and help reduce the distress that often leads to individuals developing a mental health disorder.”
“Work is one of the most important protective factors for mental health. Strengthening workplace resilience and supporting small business stability are meaningful prevention measures that help reduce pressure before it escalates into crisis.”
Focus on community wellbeing
While the Budget did not include a significant overall increase in funding for the mental health and suicide prevention sector, the organisation acknowledged targeted measures addressing areas of heightened need, alongside continued investment in system supports and community safety.
These include support to strengthen Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing and expanded investment in veteran mental health and suicide prevention strategies.
“These are important and practical steps that recognise the need for tailored support where it is urgently required,” Mr Clelland said.
Stronger investment in early intervention and prevention needed
MHFA International said prevention and early intervention must remain central to Australia’s mental health system, sitting alongside investment in clinical and crisis care.
“We cannot treat our way out of Australia’s mental health challenges. Building capability across the community so people can recognise the signs early and respond appropriately is essential to long-term system sustainability.”
He said sustained investment in community and workplace training and education remains critical if Australia is to shift from a crisis-driven model to one that prioritises earlier support.
“Mental health prevention and early intervention are everyone’s business,” Mr Clelland said. “If we are serious about long-term reform, we need sustained investment in education and training that helps people intervene earlier and support one another before challenges escalate.”
