The committee was directed to examine ongoing efforts towards improving mental health services in Australia, with reference to the National Action Plan on Mental Health agreed upon at the July 2006 meeting of the Council of Australian Governments, particularly examining the commitments and contributions of the different levels of government with regard to their respective roles and responsibilities. In considering this matter, the committee was asked to give consideration to:

(a) the extent to which the action plan assists in achieving the aims and objectives of the National Mental Health Strategy;
(b) the overall contribution of the action plan to the development of a coordinated infrastructure to support community-based care;
(c) progress towards implementing the recommendations of the Select Committee on Mental Health, as outlined in its report A national approach to mental health – from crisis to community; and
(d) identifying any possible remaining gaps or shortfalls in funding and in the range of services available for people with a mental illness.

This report outlines the committee's work to date and provides a broad summary of the themes arising in the evidence received.