VMHPAA Marks Harmony Day & International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination with a Call for Inclusive Mental Health Support
- Shane Warren
- Mar 20
- 2 min read
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
21 March, 2025
VMHPAA Marks Harmony Day & International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination with a Call for Inclusive Mental Health Support
The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association Australia (VMHPAA) joins communities across the country in celebrating Harmony Day and recognising the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
These twin commemorations serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity, equity, and social inclusion in all areas of life, especially mental health.
“Every culture, every background, every identity adds something vital to the wellbeing of our collective society,” said Shane Warren, Chair of VMHPAA. “On days like today, we don’t just celebrate multiculturalism, we reflect on how our sector must rise to meet the needs of a beautifully diverse population. Vocationally trained mental health practitioners are uniquely placed to bring culturally sensitive care into community settings where it’s needed most.”
VMHPAA recognises that systemic racism and exclusion can severely impact mental health. As such, the Association calls for greater investment in community-based, vocationally trained mental health professionals who are embedded in the communities they serve and equipped with the cultural competency to offer safe, inclusive, and empowering care.
Susan Sandy, Secretary of VMHPAA and long-time relationship counsellor, added:
“We need practitioners who look like, sound like, and understand the communities they support. Vocational mental health professionals are often the bridge between lived experience and meaningful therapeutic engagement. Let’s champion them as agents of harmony.”
As Australia reflects on Harmony Day, VMHPAA encourages individuals, workplaces, and governments to not only celebrate diversity, but also advocate for policies and practices that ensure mental health services are inclusive, equitable, and free from discrimination.
Call to Action:
VMHPAA invites all stakeholders to support the development and recognition of vocationally trained mental health practitioners, those who work within communities, understand cultural nuance, and actively foster inclusion in care.
Let’s stand together against racism, foster connection, and build a mental health system that truly honours the strength we gain through unity.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan, Secretary
VMHPAA
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