Provides an overview of data about the national response of the health and welfare system to the mental health care needs of Australians.

Introduction

This Mental health services—In brief 2015 report is a companion publication to the Mental health services in Australia website. The report provides an annual overview of mental health services, incorporating updates made to the website over the 12 months to September 2015.

This report starts by briefly describing mental illness in Australia in terms of its prevalence and impact. This is followed by an overview of services accessed by people with mental illness, and expenditure on mental health services. Later sections provide more detailed insights into mental health care services and support, medications, and resources. The report concludes with a focus on the mental health of children and adolescents, and by reporting on three Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Australian Public Mental Health Services.