A draft report from the Productivity Commission says mental health and suicide is costing Australia $500 million per day.
The report outlines the need for wide-ranging changes across the health, education, community and justice systems, in an effort to improve the response to mental-ill health which the Commission says isn't meeting community expectations. The report unveils one in every five Australians is suffering from a mental illness
It's recommending five reform areas, including improving preventative and early intervention measures for mental health and suicide.
Commission chair Michael Brennan says while full-scale change in the sector will take a long time, there are many changes that could be implemented immediately.
seeking mental health support can contact Lifeline 24 hours a day on 13 11 14.
Other services include the Suicide Call Back Service, which can be reached on 1300 659 467, and Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
