Luke Howarth (Petrie, Liberal Party, Shadow Assistant Treasurer) Share this | Hansard source

I rise today to speak on mental health. More than 42 per cent of Australians each year struggle with mental health issues. When you think about that for a moment, it's a remarkably high number. There should be no stigma around it. Around the year there are multiple days that celebrate and promote mental health and the importance of speaking openly about it. Years ago, when I was younger, it wasn't spoken about, but today, to our credit, right around Australia people are more prepared to speak about it and people are much more understanding of mental health issues.

I recently received a message about mental health from Nicole Kilmartin of Bracken Ridge, and she asked if I could read it. Nicole said:

I'm writing in response to James Packer's recent interview broadcast on Channel 7 a few weeks ago. First and foremost, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to James for speaking so openly about his experiences with bipolar disorder.

As someone who shares the same condition, I know how difficult it can be, especially given the manic episodes we sometimes face. The media can be an overwhelming place for people like us, and for James to appear on television and talk so candidly is truly deserving of recognition.

James discussed the challenges of navigating the complex world of medications, something I know firsthand can be as taxing as the condition itself.

While medication can help, it often feels like three steps forward and five steps back. I'm especially grateful to the Coalition government—

the former coalition government—

for approving the medication lurasidone, which, though primarily for schizophrenia, has significantly improved my bipolar depression and mental clarity.

I pay just $5.60 for this life-changing drug, while in the United States, it costs around $1,800 per month—a stark reminder of how fortunate we are in Australia.

I want to send James a personal message of thanks. What you did, James, sharing your mental health journey and encouraging others, is not only an act of bravery but also a testament to the classic Australian tradition of helping one another. It embodies the community spirit that we hold so dear here in Australia.

Mental health issues are becoming more common in our country—and around the world, for that matter. I encourage us all to become more educated about mental health issues and check up on our family, friends and co-workers regularly to break the ice around mental health.

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