Matt Berriman, the chair of Mental Health Australia, has resigned, citing profound disappointment with the Albanese government's lack of progress on mental health reforms. 

Berriman's resignation outlined his frustration with ongoing government inaction despite his three years of advocacy for system improvements.

“Whilst I depart the organisation comfortable with the efforts taken to advocate for meaningful change, I feel that a lack of traction at the Australian government level means it is time for someone else to take this important mental health mantle,” Berriman said this week. 

His departure comes weeks before the federal budget announcement and during intensified scrutiny of the mental health system following two high-profile stabbings in Sydney this month.

Berriman has repeatedly questioned the government's commitment to mental health.

“With one in five of us impacted by a mental health condition each year, why is mental health not a national priority and getting the attention of our prime minister?” Berriman asked last year.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says there is a need for improvement.

“We can always do better when it comes to mental health. But we have put substantial additional resources into mental health in our last budget,” he stated last week.

Frustration has been mounting within the mental health sector, particularly after the reduction of Medicare-subsidised psychology sessions from 20 to 10 per year - a move Butler claimed would allow more people access but which also drew significant criticism.

“The nation is amid a mental health crisis and Australians need urgent collaborative attention at the highest level,” Berriman said. 

“Only increased investment in services and major public policy reform will affect the necessary change. Every Australian deserves a system that truly supports and enhances their mental health. Anything less just isn’t good enough.”