Many Australians seeking mental health support face a confusing and fragmented system that can leave them feeling lost before they even begin. From June 2024 to April 2025, SANE Australia led the Digital Navigation Project, working with over 2,000 help seekers, carers, clinicians, and sector organisations to uncover the barriers in accessing care.
The findings were clear: services are scattered, care pathways are unclear, local supports are often invisible, and repeated storytelling adds stress. Multiple directories and tools exist but are incomplete, outdated, or disconnected.
The project produced practical recommendations to make the system more connected and human:
- A smarter search tool to match needs to services across the care journey.
- A national directory with up-to-date information on availability, cost, and eligibility.
- Seamless referrals so help seekers don’t have to repeat their story.
- Connected care governance to unify mental health services across the system.
For individuals, these changes promise easier access, better information, and more control over their care. Carers gain clarity and visibility of community supports, while clinicians benefit from smoother referrals and stronger system links. For the health system, these recommendations support smarter resource use, less duplication, and a more sustainable foundation for mental health care.
The full report has been submitted to the Department of Health and Aged Care, marking the first step toward a more navigable and connected mental health system in Australia.
To learn more, read the full report or watch the webinar, visit sane.org/digitalnav.
