Connections, collaboration and unity: highlights from our Mental Health Sector Expo

Last Thursday’s Mental Health Sector Expo at Parliament House was one of those days that reminded me why coming together as a united sector matters so deeply.

The vibrancy of the event reflected the diversity of our sector, yet what stood out most was how united everyone was in our shared purpose – improving the mental health and wellbeing of people and communities across Australia.

More than 55 member organisations travelled from across the country to take part, and the energy in the room was incredible. It’s rare for so many of us to be in the same place at the same time, and that alone made the day special.

Throughout the Expo, people kept saying to me, “It’s so good just to have the time to connect with colleagues across other organisations – we don’t get many chances to do this.” That sense of connection and shared momentum is something we will carry with us.

It was also encouraging to welcome around 30 parliamentarians and their staffers throughout the day – a strong sign of interest and engagement from across the Parliament.

A heartfelt thank you to Aunty Serena Palm for the beautiful Welcome to Country, and to the Minister for Health, Disability and the NDIS, The Hon. Mark Butler MP and Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, the Hon. Emma McBride MP for opening the event with such genuine support.

Walking through, it was fantastic to see so many parliamentarians engaging directly with our members, including lived experience representatives, services providers, professional associations, advocates and researchers. These conversations matter because they help build the relationships and shared understanding needed to strengthen Australia’s mental health system.

In his remarks, Minister Butler spoke to the importance of that partnership. He said: “I can't emphasise enough the importance of partnership here. Organisations that have taken the time and the energy to come and talk to us in the Parliament are really important partners in that work, and this Expo is another great opportunity for you to engage other parliamentarians in a discussion about how we can do better. Thank you again for being here today and for your commitment to improving the mental health and wellbeing of people across Australia.”

Our Chair, Dr Peggy Brown AO, reflected on the significance of the year ahead: “This year is a pivotal moment for mental health reform... our collective strength has never mattered more.”

Thanks to the many Mental Health Australia members for being a part of the event, and to our team, who made the day possible.

Last week’s Expo showed what is possible when we listen, learn from one another and connect in a shared spirit of collaboration. Let’s keep that momentum strong as we keep working to create a mentally healthy Australia together. 

Carolyn Nikoloski
CEO, Mental Health Australia