This year marked an important milestone with the launch of MHPN’s new strategic plan. Developed through extensive consultation, it builds on our strong foundations and sets a clear direction for how we will continue to support multidisciplinary collaboration and professional development across the mental health workforce.
We also began implementing our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan. This provides a meaningful framework for considering how MHPN can contribute to improved mental health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and will continue to guide our programs and partnerships.
Participation in the National Networks Program remained strong in 2025. More than 10,000 meetings were held, recording 11,915 attendances from both online and in communities across Australia. We supported 375 Networks, including 123 in rural and regional areas, highlighting the ongoing value of local and national connections for practitioners.
Engagement in our Online Professional Development Program has also been well supported by practitioners. The Podcast Program reached a significant milestone, surpassing 150,000 total listens, with 24 new episodes produced throughout the year. More than 13,000 practitioners attended the 14 live webinars delivered this year. To better meet the needs of busy clinicians, 2025 saw the introduction of a refreshed webinar format, designed to improve accessibility and engagement.
Alongside this, the Quality Assurance Framework developed by the Quality Assurance and Clinical Expertise Committee has ensured that our programs maintain quality, rigour, and relevance. Further to that, the Evaluation Committee published a study with Latrobe University, demonstrating and reinforcing the value of the National Networks Program in its ability to support and sustain the mental health workforce across Australia.
I would also like to acknowledge Chris Gibbs, MHPN’s inaugural CEO. His passing was a significant loss for our community, and his legacy continues to shape our work.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Board and Member Organisations; the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses, the Australian Psychological Society, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners for their guidance and support this year.
I’d also like to acknowledge everyone who has contributed to MHPN’s work this year, including our volunteer Coordinators, webinar panellists, podcast guests, and staff. Your commitment helps us support practitioners and strengthen multidisciplinary care across Australia.
I wish everyone a safe and happy festive season and am looking forward to what we can achieve in 2026 and beyond.
