VMHPAA Responds to Ramsay Clinic Closures: Urgent Need for Community-Centric Mental Health Strategy
- Shane Warren
- Jul 24
- 2 min read
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
24 July 2025
The Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association Australia (VMHPAA) expresses deep concern following the announcement that Ramsay Health Care will close 17 of its psychology clinics, leaving thousands of Australians at risk of losing access to crucial mental health services.
While we understand this decision was not taken lightly, our primary concern is for the continuity of care for existing patients who rely on these services, and the gap in the availability of care for those waiting to access mental health support.
“We recognise that Ramsay’s decision was undoubtedly a difficult one,” said Shane Warren, Chair of VMHPAA.“However, we are deeply concerned for people who are now left without access to regular consultations and established therapeutic relationships.”
This situation underscores the need for a broader, more resilient mental health support strategy. In particular, we strongly advocate the integration of vocationally trained counsellors into the psychosocial care framework.
Vocational counsellors are uniquely positioned to fill critical triaging roles by responding quickly within communities, de-escalating emerging crises, and guiding clients toward appropriate care pathways. Many are locally embedded and bring community insight, cultural understanding, and trust, combined with structured training and ethical governance.
“Recognising vocationally trained counsellors as eligible providers in psychosocial support is not just equitable it’s smart policy,” Warren added.“They stand at the powerful intersection of lived and professional experience, bridging peer-led care and clinical systems.”
“A community-led mental health ecosystem needs to include counsellors who live in, understand, and care for their own communities,” said Susan Sandy, Secretary of VMHPAA.“With formal recognition and funding, these practitioners can help rebuild a system that is accessible, grounded, and durable.”
VMHPAA Urges:
Immediate transition plans for patients affected by the clinic closures to maintain continuity of care.
Recognition of vocationally trained counsellors in national and state psychosocial commissioning frameworks.
Funding and inclusion in provider schedules for community-based mental health support.
Role clarity and triage inclusion to ensure vocational practitioners are key partners in early intervention and crisis responses.
The closure of these clinics is a serious stress test for Australia’s mental health system. VMHPAA is prepared to collaborate with governments, providers, and communities to ensure that no one is left without care, especially when they most need it.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
VMHPAA
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