24 March 2026
Bridget Archer, Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing
Consultation has begun on the next overarching Tasmanian mental health strategy, Rethink and Beyond.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said every Tasmanian deserves access to mental health services that are inclusive, compassionate, and effective.
“Over the past decade, reforms delivered through Rethink 2015-2025 and Rethink 2020 have improved service access, expanded community-based care, and strengthened lived experience leadership and system integration,” Minister Archer said.
“The new strategy will build on these strong foundations as we continue working toward a more integrated, high quality and person-centred mental health system for all Tasmanians.
“The Discussion Paper draws on key stakeholder insights from the roundtable held in October 2025, interim findings of the Rethink 2020 evaluation, and community consultation undertaken for the new 20-year preventive health strategy to guide the next phase of reform.
“The paper reflects on achievements under Rethink 2020, identifies ongoing challenges, outlines emerging priorities and opportunities, possible strategic directions for the future, and questions to prompt feedback.
“Our Government is helping people deal with the challenges they face, with compassion and commonsense, and delivering for Tasmanians.”
Stakeholders, service providers, consumers, carers, and community members are invited to help shape the new strategy.
Visit the Department of Health website at The Next Tasmanian Mental Health Strategy to read the Discussion Paper and have your say.
Consultation closes on 1 May 2026.
There will also be further consultation opportunities, including focus groups and community forums to provide feedback on a draft strategy.