The mental health unit was formally established in 2009. The Mental Health Academic guides the development of the unit in collaboration with four other members. The mental health team are involved in research and training that provides improvement and support to the mental health community. While the mental health academic position aims to improve recruitment, retention and training of the mental health workforce in Gippsland the unit is involved in multiple research and training initiatives including:
Gippsland Mental Health Vacation School
In partnership with mental health service providers in Gippsland, Monash University Department of Rural and Indigenous Health offers 3rd and 4th year allied health and nursing undergraduate, honors and postgraduate entry students the opportunity to broaden their understanding of the mental health field, become aware of the range of mental health services provided in Gippsland, and explore career opportunities with potential employers in the region.
Gippsland Mental Health Workforce Project
This work aims to improve workforce recruitment, retention across all sectors of the mental health service system in Gippsland. The project includes reviewing and developing novel and evidence based approaches to improving recruitment and retention, including addressing mental health worker training and support needs.
Program Evaluation Training
Research collaboration with the Victorian FaPMI strategy
The evaluation component of the FaPMI Service Development Strategy is a joint initiative between The Bouverie Centre, La Trobe University (Rose Cuff, Amaryll Perlesz, Melinda Goodyear) and the Department of Rural and Indigenous Health, Monash University (Darryl Maybery, Andrea Reupert, Melinda Goodyear).
Research collaboration with the National COPMI strategy
The Australian COPMI initiative aims to promote better mental health outcomes for children (0 - 18 years) of parents with a mental health problem or disorder.
Research collaboration with Northern Kids Care
Northern Kids Care is an early intervention and preventative support program for children or young people aged up to 18 years who have a parent with a mental illness.
