Supporting Innovative Approaches to Mental Health Care
On the heels of the Productivity Commission’s review into the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement — which found little progress in improving outcomes for those with mental ill health, and highlighted that care remains unaffordable and inaccessible — we’re taking a moment to reflect on two recent beneficiaries that offer practical, community-based solutions to these very challenges.
Lake Macquarie Suicide Prevention & Support Network
By establishing a Mental Health Hub in Charlestown, Lake Macquarie Suicide Prevention & Support Network offers a grassroots model of suicide prevention that reflects the recommendations of the Productivity Commission’s Mental Health Inquiry. Their peer-led programs combine lived experience, early intervention, and community-wide education to tackle suicide risk in regional New South Wales — a region where suicide rates remain high. This model fosters social inclusion and delivers consistent, person-centred support, echoing the Commission’s call for care that is local, responsive, and inclusive of cultural and social needs.
Trauma Awareness Network Australia
Trauma Awareness Network Australia (TANA) provides trauma-informed support to people affected by childhood abuse, domestic violence, and other adverse life experiences. By training frontline workers, educators, and community leaders in recognising and responding to trauma, TANA builds capacity in the broader community to support recovery. This aligns with key findings of the Productivity Commission, which stress the importance of early identification, whole-of-community responses, and culturally sensitive care for people with complex mental health needs.
Together, these programs demonstrate the value of locally grounded, trauma-informed, and recovery-focused care — principles at the heart of Australia’s future mental health system.
Looking Ahead
In line with our mission to foster community wellbeing and reflecting national reform priorities, the Coopers Foundation is pleased to confirm that our 2026 Sustainable Giving grant will include mental health programs under the Healthcare focus area. We invite charities working in this space to consider applying.
As always, our thanks go to our Patrons, Governors and many generous donors whose support makes this work possible. Through thoughtful giving and long-term investment in community care, the Foundation continues its enduring legacy of supporting Australian wellbeing.