The DDWMPHN is Seeking Expressions of Interest for Targeted Psychological Therapies

⁠⁠⁠In November 2015 the Commonwealth Government announced its response to the Review of Mental Health Programmes and Services in Australia. This review set out a challenging and more comprehensive role for Primary Health Networks in commissioning primary healthcare services. In, particular the treatment services that address the nationally prioritised health needs of people with mental health and alcohol and other drugs issues.

As part of this Federal Government response, Medicare (Better Access) subsidised mental health services was acknowledged as central to the improvements to mental health treatment rates. It was noted that some population groups remain underserviced through this model. A key focus area was hard to reach groups.

From this reform and other Departmental mandated changes, DDWMPHN has realigned the old ATAPS and MHSSRA funding into the new Targeted Psychological Therapies. This support will be a fundamental step in the planned stepped care approach, which will ensure that the people get the right service at the right level at the right time. Through this approach, people can move between the "steps" based on their identified needs, without having to enter at the lower services and move up.

These services will commence from July 2018 and work alongside the old ATAPS program during a transition phase until September 2018. The new and existing programs and providers will have full access to support and assistance from the PHN and the Health Service Navigators Organisations during this transition. Additionally, DDWMPHN has funding, separate from this tender for Child and Youth Severe Services, Mental Health Nurse program which are available.