What mental health services are available in NSW?

​At a glance

The Australian healthcare system is complex. Mental health services are delivered across a range of settings by a variety of providers. Mental health service providers are located in GP surgeries, community managed organisations, schools, aged care services, and private and public health settings. Funding comes from a combination of state, national, insurance and out of pocket sources.

Services provide support for people with mental health conditions in their efforts for recovery. They also assist families and carers, who provide significant informal supports for their loved ones.

Services available in NSW

• Local health districts and specialty health networks, funded by NSW Health, provide a range of specialist mental health services and deliver hospital and community based care to those with high levels of need. NSW Health also provides specialist services, including Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and Older People’s Mental Health Services.
• The Australian government provides funding for private GPs, psychiatrists, psychologists and other allied health professionals through Medicare. Some of these providers require a co-payment from patients.
• Community Managed Organisations (CMOs) are key providers of mental health services and psychosocial support to people with mental health conditions in the community.
• Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) provide a range of primary health services for Aboriginal people and their communities.
• Primary Health Networks (PHNs) undertake planning and coordination. They commission primary health services, psychosocial support programs, and suicide prevention and aftercare services from other providers.

The services available vary and depend on where people live.

Resources

NSW Strategic Framework and Workforce Plan for Mental Health 2018–2022
This is the NSW Strategic Framework for Mental Health with directions for 2018-2022, vision, goals and objectives.
Type: Publication
Length: 146 pages
Produced by: NSW Health

Living Well: A Strategic Plan for Mental Health in NSW 2014 – 2024
This plan, prepared by the Mental Health Commission of NSW, sets out actions and future directions for reform of the mental health system in NSW.
Type: Publication
Length: 140 pages
Produced by: Mental Health Commission of NSW

Mental health in Australia: a quick guide
This quick guide is an overview of mental health in Australia, including how widespread it is, the cost, the role government plays, and what services are available.
Type: Web page quick guide (PDF available)
Estimated reading time: 15 minutes
Produced by: Parliament of Australia

Health in Australia: a quick guide
This quick guide is an overview of Australia’s complex health system, including mental health.
Type: Web page quick guide (PDF available)
Estimated reading time: 15 minutes
Produced by: Parliament of Australia