The National Rural Health Alliance has submitted a response to the Deloitte’s consultation on an Emerging Mental Health Curriculum Framework for Undergraduate Health Degrees (commissioned by the Department of Health and Aged Care). The proposed mental health curriculum framework aims to provide a standardised and consistent level of mental health-related knowledge, skills and capabilities across a range of health professionals to address ongoing mental health workforce shortages across Australia. Insights from the consultation survey will inform the recommendations for the future proposed mental health curriculum framework.
The National Rural Health Alliance sought feedback from our membership to inform key recommendations. Feedback provided by the National Rural Health Alliance included an emphasis on understanding the rural experience and rural-specific training. Recommended competencies included mental health first aid, trauma informed practices, and culturally safe practices. Further consideration should be given to expanding the mental health curriculum framework to a more inclusive list of allied health professionals.