THURSDAY, 20 AUGUST 2026: Senior leaders from across health, policy, clinical, provider, consumer and insurance perspectives gathered at the National Press Club of Australia this week for the Reimagining Mental Health Care Roundtable.
The cross-sector discussion on the future of mental health care in Australia built on analysis developed by HCF and Nous Group, which found access to private mental health care is narrowing, while the people seeking care are presenting with increasingly complex needs. The evidence also highlighted growing workforce and capacity constraints across the mental health system.
Participants discussed barriers to accessing mental health care, increasing care complexity, workforce and capacity constraints, and opportunities to better connect care across public, private, primary and community settings.
HCF CEO and Managing Director Lorraine Thomas said the discussion highlighted the value of bringing together people from across the system to better understand the challenges facing Australians seeking mental health support.
“Too many Australians are struggling to access mental health support when they need it. When care is delayed, fragmented or unaffordable, the consequences are felt by individuals and families, as well as across communities, workplaces and the broader health system.
“Mental health care spans public, private, primary care and community services. No single organisation can solve this alone, which is why conversations like this matter.
“As Australia's largest not-for-profit health insurer, we see how these pressures affect people at different stages of their healthcare journey. Building a health system that can meet Australia’s needs will require evidence, collaboration and a willingness to work together on practical solutions.
“What emerged from the discussion was a shared commitment to improving mental health care and a recognition that progress will depend on organisations working together across the system.”
HCF Chief Officer, Member Health Julie Andrews said supporting members through their mental health journey remains a key priority for HCF.
“We know mental health concerns can affect people at many stages of life, and getting the right support at the right time is important for better outcomes.
“For many people, the challenge isn't just accessing care. It's knowing where to start, navigating different parts of the system and finding support that meets their needs.
“Discussions like this help build a better understanding of the barriers people face and where there may be opportunities to improve how care is experienced and connected.”
A White Paper will draw on the evidence base, roundtable insights and further participant feedback, capturing key themes, areas of alignment, differing perspectives and opportunities for further exploration.
ENDS
About us:
HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund protecting Australians since 1932, covers more than 2 million members with health and life1 insurance, travel2, pet3 home4 and car5 insurance. HCF has been awarded Outstanding Value Health Insurance by Canstar ten years in a row from 2016–2025. On average over the last 10 years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average*. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us
* 88.7% compared to 84.4% across the industry. Calculated based on the average of the past 10 years, sourced from APRA Statistics: Operations of Private Health Insurers Annual Report data 2015–24 and Quarterly Private Health Insurance Statistics Jul 2024–Jun 2025.
1 Issued by HCF Life. Consider the PDS and TMD at hcf.com.au/lifeinfo
2 HCF Travel Insurance is issued by AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 trading as Allianz Global Assistance. Please consider the PDS at hcf.com.au/travel and TMD at allianzpartners.com.au/policies before deciding whether to buy the product.
3 HCF Pet Insurance is issued by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd, except for policies entered into before 21 March 2024 and subsequent renewals of those policies, which are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd. Consider the PDS and TMD at hcf.com.au/petinsurance before deciding if the product is right for you.
4 Issued by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708. Consider the PDS at hcf.com.au/insurance/home and TMD which is available by calling 1300 657 046 before deciding if the product is right for you.
5 Issued by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708. Consider the PDS at hcf.com.au/insurance/car and TMD which is available by calling 1300 657 046 before deciding if the product is right for you.
Contact details:
Joni Thomes 0475 576 738 or [email protected]
