As part of the Wellbeing and Prevention Coalition in Mental Health, led by Prevention United we join in the call for a bold new approach to mental health in Australia—one that moves beyond the current cycle of reactive treatment and into a future grounded in prevention, early action, and whole-of-community wellbeing. Our latest submission to the Productivity Commission supports the development of a national framework for prevention-focused investment and outlines a compelling case for system-wide reform.
Despite growing investment in mental health services, rates of mental ill-health—especially among young people—continue to climb. The current system is stretched, and heavily weighted toward crisis response and short-term interventions. In contrast, prevention offers a smarter, more sustainable solution. With up to 75% of mental health conditions emerging before age 25, the opportunity to make a lasting difference through early, targeted action is clear.
The submission highlights the urgent need to embed prevention within Australia’s mental health response—through long-term planning, workforce development, cross-portfolio collaboration, and sustained funding. Prevention is not only effective but cost-efficient. For example, eradicating child maltreatment alone could prevent nearly half of suicide attempts and a quarter of anxiety and depression cases. Economic modelling shows that nine out of ten prevention interventions return more than they cost.
ARACY and its partners advocate for a dual-systems model: one that balances treatment services with strategic investment in prevention and mental health promotion. This approach builds on Australia’s public health successes in areas like tobacco control and heart disease, and applies the Socio-Ecological Model to drive coordinated action across the places where Australians live, learn, work, and play.
By strengthening the conditions that support resilience and wellbeing—such as safe relationships, inclusive education, and supportive communities—we can improve mental health outcomes across the life course. From parenting programs to anti-bullying initiatives and wellbeing economy measures, the Coalition stands ready to support national action.
Prevention is not only possible—it’s essential.
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With six connected areas, The Nest ensures young Australians have everything they need for the best start in life, helping them reach their highest potential.
Using The Nest, has helped ARACY to be at the forefront of disease prevention and the promotion of holistic health for young Australians.
Here you’ll see some examples of how The Nest has been used in organisations outside of ARACY across Australia.
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ARACY acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their enduring connection to the lands, waters, and skies. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
In solidarity, ARACY supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the need for truth-telling about the history and impact of colonisation. We treasure the rich and diverse cultures and customs of First Nations people – valued knowledge holders, leaders and partners in creating the conditions for all our children to thrive.
