Access to timely and personalised mental health care remains a critical challenge for rural and remote populations in Australia. This abstract examines how Rural and Remote Mental Health has adopted a proven model to address mental health disparities in the Darling Downs and West Moreton region of Queensland.

Rural and Remote Mental Health has licensed New Zealand’s Gumboot Friday platform from I Am Hope Foundation. Gumboot Friday empowers individuals aged 5 to 25 to choose their preferred qualified mental health practitioner, providing immediate access to care. This patient-driven approach enhances autonomy, trust, and engagement while addressing barriers such as cost, geographic isolation, and long wait times.

The ImpactLab GoodMeasure Report (2023) underscores the platform’s transformative social impact, with every dollar invested generating $5.70 in measurable social value. Key outcomes include improved mental health, reduced risky behaviours, and increased academic achievement, with 90% of the social value attributed to health-related benefits. Participation rates in southern Queensland highlight the potential for scaling this model across Australia, where rural and remote populations face similar challenges in accessing mental health services.

The Rural and Remote Mental Health model leverages digital platforms to connect individuals with practitioners, ensuring accessibility regardless of location. It emphasises culturally appropriate care, particularly for Indigenous communities, integrates with existing services, promotes telehealth to bridge geographic gaps, and provides outreach through local and mobile initiatives. By prioritising patient choice and immediate support, this model addresses the unique needs of rural and remote populations, reducing mental health inequities and fostering long-term wellbeing.

This presentation will explore the feasibility and potential impact of expanding this model nationwide, emphasising the importance of choice, accessibility, and measurable outcomes. Scaling this initiative could create sustainable, life-changing impacts for diverse communities across Australia.