Media Release: MHCT Brings Together Leaders to Shape Digital Mental Health
Media Release
MHCT Brings Together Leaders to Shape Digital Mental Health
Local, national and international mental health leaders, policymakers, researchers, and people with lived and living experience are gathering in Hobart today for a major roundtable focused on the future of digital mental health in Tasmania.
Hosted by the Mental Health Council of Tasmania (MHCT) in partnership with the eMental Health International Collaborative (eMHIC), the event will explore how digital tools can help address growing demand for mental health support and improve equity across the state.
The roundtable comes at a critical time, as Tasmania develops its next Mental Health Strategy, Rethink and Beyond.
With demand for mental health services rising significantly in recent years, access to supports and services remains a challenge – particularly for people in rural and remote communities.
MHCT CEO Dan Vautin said digital mental health must be part of the solution.
“Too many Tasmanians are waiting too long to get the support they need. We also know that for many people, distance remains a real barrier.”
“Digital mental health is not a replacement for face-to-face care, but it is an essential part of a modern, accessible and equitable system.”
The roundtable is an opportunity to highlight what is already working, identify gaps, and discuss practical, evidence-based recommendations to inform Tasmania’s next Mental Health Strategy and future investment.
The digital tools explored during the roundtable – including telehealth, online therapy, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence – are intended to supplement face-to-face supports, improving access and enabling earlier intervention.
“We have a real opportunity to design a system that works better for Tasmanians, particularly for regional communities and young people,” said Mr Vautin.
“This roundtable is about bringing the right people together to move from ideas to action, to make sure Tasmania does not fall behind, and ultimately support better mental health outcomes for everyone.”
