One in five Australians delaying mental health care due to cost

22 November 2023 

Please find below statement in response to the ABS data released yesterday.

The Australian Association of Psychologists (AAPi) said the data showing one in five Australians had delayed or not seen a mental health professional in the past year due to cost was highly concerning. 

The data also showed that 40% of people with a mental health condition delayed or did not see a health professional at least once when needed.

AAPi Executive Director Tegan Carrison said in the grip of the ongoing mental health crisis, affordability and accessibility to services remained key. 

"We again call on the Federal Government to lift the Medicare rebate for all psychology sessions to $150. This latest data is proof that people in need are being denied the mental healthcare they need, with people living in areas of socio-economic disadvantage and rural areas being impacted the most," Ms Carrison said.  

“At a time when cost of living pressures are restricting access to health care, the Government must address the two-tier system that sees 40% lower rebates to the clients of the majority of psychologists. 

"It is well documented that high out-of-pocket healthcare costs result in access barriers and the cost of living crisis has exacerbated the situation. 

"And if the almost 8000 provisional psychologists around the country were able to provide their services with a Medicare rebate, this would dramatically improve access for those in need."