The Productivity Commission has been asked to conduct an inquiry into the role of mental health in supporting economic participation, enhancing productivity and economic growth. It should make recommendations, as necessary, to improve population mental health, so as to realise economic and social participation and productivity benefits over the long term.

Without limiting related matters on which the Commission may report, the Commission should:

• examine the effect of supporting mental health on economic and social participation, productivity and the Australian economy;
• examine how sectors beyond health, including education, employment, social services, housing and justice, can contribute to improving mental health and economic participation and productivity;
• examine the effectiveness of current programs and initiatives across all jurisdictions to improve mental health, suicide prevention and participation, including by governments, employers and professional groups;
• assess whether the current investment in mental health is delivering value for money and the best outcomes for individuals, their families, society and the economy;
• draw on domestic and international policies and experience, where appropriate; and
• develop a framework to measure and report the outcomes of mental health policies and investment on participation, productivity and economic growth over the long term.

This issues paper outlines a range of issues on which the commission is seeking information and feedback.