Just over a week ago, along with QCEC Education Officer Dr Shannon O’Gorman, I had the opportunity to address the Queensland Parliament’s Mental Health Select Committee which is holding an Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders.  

The hearing provided an opportunity to provide an overview of the significant work being done in schools to address mental health concerns and to advocate for Catholic schools to be given access to a number of programs, such as GPS in schools, which are currently only available in the state sector. A transcript of the hearing is available here. 

QCEC also made a written submission to the inquiry on behalf of all Catholic School Authorities.  

The submission points out that mental illness experienced by a young person, and/or their parent or carer, can be a significant contributing factor as to whether the student attends school and their level of engagement.

Among many other important points raised, the submission details the view that the provision of mental health support in schools should incorporate adequately funded positions that ensure students in need of mental health support, can at the very least, access a level of support within the safety of the school environment. 

Read the full submission on the QCEC website here.