A capable, well-supported workforce is essential for delivering good mental health care and improving staff retention. The headspace National Early Career Program (ECP) aims to strengthen the mental health workforce by preparing early career occupational therapy, social work, and psychology professionals for sustainable careers in youth mental health.

This presentation highlights the ECP Graduate Education program, undertaken by early career clinicians as part of a two-year graduate program. Since 2022, around 100 graduates have participated, with 53 placed in rural or regional headspace services. In February 2025, 41 more graduates started, including 18 placed in rural or regional areas.
The Graduate Education program employs a theory, practice, and reflection approach, delivered through six learning blocks. Equivalent to 40 days of professional development, the program combines diverse online learning spaces with practical application in headspace services, support by embedded local Clinical Educators. Anchored by an evidence-informed capability framework, the curriculum is built to grow competent, confident clinicians by integrating adult learning principles, co-design, lived experience, and culturally responsive practice. With all learning taking place online, rural based graduates are connected to their colleagues, receive quality clinical educational support, and receive the same professional development as their metropolitan peers.
Evaluation of the Graduate Education Program is ongoing, with data being collected to assess overall program satisfaction, skill development, and graduates' intentions to pursue careers in youth mental health. Initial surveys indicate graduates’ increased confidence and competence across Capability Framework domains and feeling better prepared for clinical practice. Nearly half of participants who have been part of the program so far have transitioned into youth mental health roles. Initial feedback on the Graduate Education program has been positive, leading to key improvements in content and delivery. These insights, along with future goals, will be shared to inform and support similar workforce development initiatives.