Peter has asked us: My question relates to mental health – both parties throwing wads of cash at the issue but neither seemingly addressing the underlying problem – an escalation in demand for services but no increase in the number of trained psychologists- what is the point of announcing $00s of millions extra cash if people needing help cannot get an appointment? Why not make the degree free for the next 5 years to encourage people to study and train? 

It’s a really good question. Part of Labor’s response is that they are not increasing the number of subsidised mental health appointments from 10 to 20 is there is not enough speciality doctors for the demand and there would be more people missing out.

So Mark Butler would tell you they are investing in all the things you have asked about to try and address this issue into the future. The problem is the now – and the states (just look at NSW) and federal Labor are still not putting in the necessary funds to get doctors now, to pay the ones they have better (and attract more into the public system) and address the backlog. As for making the degree free (like some TAFE courses are to address skill shortages) is a great idea – but so far, we are not seeing anyone take it up.