The report objectively monitors the performance of Australia's mental health system, examining the prevalence of mental health challenges and the drivers behind it. The analysis focuses on what progress has been made across the core indicators since the release of the National report card 2023, while also drawing on supplementary data from other sources. It should be read alongside the National report card 2024: technical report.

Key findings

• The proportion of people finding it difficult or very difficult to cope on their present income has doubled from November 2020 to January 2024, with women consistently reporting higher levels than men.
• More than a fifth of people delayed or did not see a health professional for their own mental health when needed due to cost.
• Despite more people with a mental disorder accessing treatment compared to earlier years, treatment rates are still well below current targets.
• There has been a decline in the percentage of people reporting a high sense of control over events in their life since 2019.
• Progress continues in reducing the national rate of seclusion and physical restraint in public hospital mental health care.

The report is accompanied by an infographic that presents a snapshot of the main findings.