The Manna Institute launched in October 2022 with the purpose of building research and training capacity for mental health in rural, regional, and remote Australia. The Manna Institute comprises leading mental health researchers from seven universities within the Regional Universities Network, in collaboration with industry and community partners (including Everymind, Lifeline Direct and the ANU Centre for Mental Health Research), and lived experience and First Nations representatives. The Institute aims to supports meaningful research, foster the development of professional workforces, and translate research findings into practical, place-based programs. The Manna Institute has developed four position papers focusing on key mental health issues affecting regional, rural and remote Australia. The purpose of these position papers is to highlight key issues, and provide an overview of the relevant evidence base, before presenting the Manna Institute’s position on how each issue should be addressed. These position papers are focused on: (1) existing and emerging workforce development including peer workers; (2) individuals’ health and wellbeing, in terms of the psycho-social-behavioural factors that impact individual health and well-being across the lifespan; (3) priority populations, including those most isolated and vulnerable to distress; and (4) the impact of changing environmental conditions on mental health. This panel discussion will open by providing an introduction and background to the Manna Institute, and an overview of the process for developing these position statements. Each position statement will then be presented, including an overview of the evidence base and the Institute’s position on how each issue should be addressed. The session will conclude with a discussion about the Manna Institute’s position statements, and an invitation for feedback from attendees to inform each statement before they are finalised and disseminated.