News
19 September, 2025
Child mental health shines
AUSTRALIA has taken a major step in supporting the mental health of young children with the release of the National Guidelines for including mental health and wellbeing in Early Childhood Health Checks (ECHCs).
Launched on September 8, the Guidelines provide a consistent national framework for integrating mental health and wellbeing into routine health checks, recognising the first 2,000 days of life as a critical period for development.
Commission CEO David McGrath said the Guidelines aim to normalise conversations about child mental health from birth. “Early childhood is a foundational period. By embedding mental health and wellbeing into routine health checks, we can identify emerging challenges early and ensure families receive timely support and advice,” he said.
The Guidelines complement national initiatives such as the National Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy and respond to growing concerns. The Commission’s National Report Card 2024 highlighted rising rates of mental disorders among young people and noted that many families delay or miss out on care due to cost barriers.
“By encouraging consistent access to ECHCs with trusted professionals, we empower families to understand and respond to their child’s mental health needs early, and into the future,” McGrath said.
Developed in consultation with families, carers, and experts, the Guidelines aim to help professionals and parents create nurturing environments where every child can thrive.
More information is available at: https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/national-guidelines-for-including-mental-health-and-wellbeing-in-early-childhood-health-checks
