Released 20/12/2025
The ACT Government, in partnership with Capital Health Network (CHN), has today released the 2025–2030 ACT Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Regional Plan: The Framework, setting a clear direction for improving mental health and suicide prevention outcomes for Canberrans.
Minister for Mental Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the plan reflects a shared commitment to building a more connected, inclusive and responsive mental health system.
“Good mental health and effective suicide prevention are essential to individual wellbeing and the strength of our community,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“This Framework provides a roadmap for change, informed by lived experience and developed through collaboration across government, health services and the community.”
Minister Stephen-Smith said mental health is shaped by many factors and challenges, from housing and employment to social connection and cultural safety.
“The ACT Government is proud to collaborate with the Capital Health Network on this plan, which takes a whole-of-system and whole-of-community approach, focusing on prevention, early intervention and person-centred care so that people can access the right support when and where they need it,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“The plan complements the ACT Government’s broader investment in mental health services, including the recently released Strategic Investment Plan for community mental health services.
“We will continue our efforts in shaping a mental health system that is responsive, inclusive and accessible. The insights captured in the plan, alongside ongoing feedback and reflection will be vital as we develop the ACT Government’s Mental Health Services Plan, due for completion by the end of 2026.”
The 2025–2030 ACT Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Regional Plan: The Framework is available on the Capital Health Network website. For more information, visit Capital Health Network | Publications - ACT Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan.
Quotes attributable to Capital Health Network CEO, Stacy Leavens:
“This Framework marks the renewal of CHN and the ACT Government’s shared commitment to strengthening joint regional planning and working together to coordinate and integrate mental health care in the ACT.”
“The Framework is an essential starting point for future collaboration and reform. We look forward to continuing our work with the ACT Government, the primary care, mental health, and suicide prevention sectors, and the local community to take action under the Regional Plan and improve the health and wellbeing of people in the ACT.”
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases