In 2025, the Productivity Commission conducted the final review of the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, to assess the impact of programs delivered under the Agreement and make recommendations for the Agreement that aim to enhance the effectiveness, accessibility, affordability and safety of the mental health and suicide prevention system.
Following the Commission’s Interim Report, the Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT) has provided a final submission to the review, making a number of recommendations relating to inclusion, equity and accessibility of services for culturally and linguistically diverse Australians.
The Forum of Australian Services for Survivors of Torture and Trauma (FASSTT) is a national network of eight specialist organisations, located in every state and territory across Australia. FASSTT agencies deliver trauma-focused, culturally responsive support to individuals who have experienced torture or other human rights violations – often in the context of war, persecution or forced displacement.
Most of the people supported by FASSTT have arrived in Australia as refugees, humanitarian entrants or asylum seekers. FASSTT agencies help survivors in their journey of healing and recovery, and in rebuilding their lives in safety and dignity.
Individuals seeking assistance can contact their local FASSTT Agency or call the Witness to War Telephone Line on 1800 845 198 – a free, multilingual telephone service for people affected by overseas conflicts.
