TheMHS Sydney Forum

Help when you need it: TheMHS Sydney Forum to address gaps in mental health crisis response.

Sydney, Australia — May 1, 2026

HORIZON IS THE APPOINTED MEDIA PARTNER

Mental health leaders, people with lived experience, carers, and service providers will come together in Sydney to address ongoing challenges in accessing timely and appropriate crisis support.

TheMHS Learning Network will host the TheMHS Sydney Forum 2026, “Help when you need it,” on May 1, 2026, at Mercure Sydney. The one-day event will focus on improving crisis response systems and reducing barriers to care.

Despite growing demand, many people continue to face challenges accessing support when they need it most. Emergency departments remain under pressure and are often not equipped to provide environments that support recovery and dignity during a mental health crisis.

The forum will highlight innovative service models that are improving access and outcomes, with a strong focus on lived experience and community-based care. Delegates will hear from consumers, carers, funders, and service providers, and take part in a co-design process to generate solutions for improving crisis response.

The event will also feature a virtual keynote from Dixon Chibanda, founder of the Friendship Bench in Zimbabwe, an internationally recognised model providing accessible, community-based mental health support. His presentation will provide valuable insights into the impact that practical and scalable solutions can have on crisis response.

Virtual and in-person registrations are now open for those looking to be part of this important conversation and contribute to improving mental health crisis response. 

https://themhs.eventsair.com/sydneyforum2026/registration