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MEDIA RLEASE / AWARENESS STATEMENT / PUBLIC RESPONSE For Immediate Release 20 March 2026 VMHPAA raises consultation integrity concerns with Minister Butler regarding National Standards consultation The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) has today written to the office of the Hon Mark Butler MP, Minister for Health, Ageing and Disability, to raise concerns about aspects of the current Commonwealth consultation on  regulatory options  to su

On International Day of Happiness, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is encouraging the community to pause and reflect on the importance of happiness, hope, and emotional wellbeing in everyday life. The United Nations marks the day each year on 20 March, recognising happiness and wellbeing as universal human goals. 

As Muslim communities in Australia and around the world mark Eid al-Fitr, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) extends warm wishes to all who are celebrating and acknowledges the deep spiritual, cultural and community significance of this important occasion. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, prayer, reflection and generosity, and is widely recognised as a time of gratitude, family, community and charity. 

As Australia marks Harmony Week, with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination observed on 21 March, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is encouraging communities to celebrate diversity while renewing their commitment to inclusion, respect, belonging, and action against racism. Harmony Week 2026 runs from 16 to 22 March, and the Australian Government describes it as a time to recognise Australia’s diversity a

As Neurodiversity Celebration Week begins, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is encouraging communities across Australia to recognise, value, and celebrate the diverse ways people think, learn, feel, communicate, and engage with the world.

On World Sleep Day, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is encouraging the community to recognise sleep not as an indulgence, but as a vital foundation for physical health, emotional balance, and mental wellbeing.

VMHPAA will continue to advocate for implementation that is proportionate, realistic, and inclusive including explicit vocational pathways and fair transitional recognition for experienced practitioners. Because Australia cannot build a safer mental health system by removing the people who are currently holding it together.

Australia is in a moment of genuine opportunity and responsibility, as we explore the best way forward to implement the National Standards for Counsellors and Psychotherapists.

Join our webinar to help cut the confusion on this important issue

On World Obesity Day, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) recognises that obesity is not solely a physical health issue, it is deeply connected to mental wellbeing, social determinants, and lived experience.

International Women’s Week is a time to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of women in leadership, education, health, business, family life, and community.

As the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade Parade prepares to walk the streets of the Rainbow Precinct, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) reaffirms its strong support for the Mardi Gras organisation and the values it represents.

As the Parade draws closer this Saturday, we know the energy will lift even further. Mardi Gras is a powerful reminder of visibility, resilience and belonging for LGBTQIA+SB communities and allies.

On the International Day of Love, often marked as Valentine’s Day, VMHPAA recognises that love is broader than romance. It is found in friendship, family, community, self-compassion, and the quiet commitment we make to care for one another.

On International Epilepsy Day, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) stands with the millions of people worldwide living with epilepsy, as well as their families, carers, and communities.

On World Cancer Day, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) stands with all individuals, families, carers, and communities affected by cancer.

The Holocaust stands as one of history’s clearest warnings of what happens when hatred is normalised, when people are dehumanised, and when silence allows fear and prejudice to take root. It reminds us that violence does not begin with weapons it begins with words, exclusion, and the erosion of empathy.

For some, it is a day of celebration and pride. For others, it carries grief, anger, or a reminder of loss and injustice.For many, it is a mixture of all of these things.

As a community, and as a nation, our duty is simple: honour every contribution, support every return, and never diminish the service of others to validate our own.

On International Day of Education, VMHPAA recognises education as one of the most powerful protective factors for mental health, social stability, and lifelong wellbeing.