Wednesday 4 June - Thursday 5 June 2025 Gold Coast – Qld

From Local Communities to Global Perspectives: Reimagining & Revolutionising Mental Health

Join us at IMHC25

The world of mental health is constantly evolving. Given that even the smallest insights can make a significant difference, staying informed is crucial.

The International Mental Health Conference offers a curated selection of global developments, trends, expertise, and experiences in mental health. We’ve gathered perspectives from around the world to provide a comprehensive view of our sector’s future direction.

Over two days, you’ll engage with more than 60 presentations and experiences designed to keep you on the cutting edge of trends and ready to apply your new knowledge effectively.

This isn’t just another stuffy academic conference - it’s a collaborative effort to advance mental health.

With a focus on action and innovation, the International Mental Health Conference blends international insights with inspirational content.

We recognise the demanding nature of working in mental health. With plenty of time to network, connect with your peers and enjoy your beachside environment, this is your chance to reset, re-energise, and prepare for your future in the sector with renewed focus and enthusiasm.

At IMHC25 we’re ….

IMHC25 promises to be a comprehensive exploration of the most pressing issues facing our sector today.

Join your peers as we delve into a wide range of crucial topics, from Revolutionising Mental Health: Innovations, Challenges, and Global Perspectives to Bridging Gaps: Addressing the Needs of Diverse Populations to Empowering Lived Experience: Pioneering Paths to Advocacy and Innovation IMHC25 will address the innovative approaches and transformative journeys that go along with reimagining mental health.

As well as this, experts will guide discussions on Innovations in Workplace Mental Health and Advocacy as well as LGBTIQ+ Empowerment and Inclusive Mental Health Practices and what the mental health support of the future might look like.

Walk away equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and innovative strategies to better serve the mental health needs of your community, clients and peers in our rapidly changing world.

The Mission

Be part of the IMHC25 mission. Together we will:

Address key mental and emotional health challenges facing our global community in 2025 and plan for brighter future.
Support mental health professionals and emerging workers in the field by providing access to networking opportunities and a high level of professional development.
Provide a platform for government policy and initiatives to update, inform and seek feedback from the people who are delivering the services in the community.
Encourage multi-sectoral collaboration and create an engaging space for knowledge sharing, and learning opportunities within the mental health community.

More about IMHC25

Here’s a snapshot of delegates you can connect with at IMHC25

IMHC25 is a leading event in the international mental health community, attracting an incredible cross section of sector leaders, professionals and practitioners.

This is an international conference with delegates from not only Australia and New Zealand but the rest of the global mental health community.

Delegates include:

Psychologists, Psychiatrists, GPs
Speech pathologists, Occupational therapists, Social workers, Physiotherapists, Nutritionists, Allied Health Managers, Disability support workers, Mental health nurses
Team Lead, Program Managers, Project Lead of Hospital and Health services and PHNS
Directors & CEO’s of mental health agencies and sector supplier organisations
Researchers & Academics
Counsellors & Consultants
Mental health advocates and lived experience
Workplace Mental health experts
Peer Support workers
Mental Health Leadership, Strategy and Management: CEOS, Directors, Managers and Leaders Mental Health Medical Professionals
Government: Policy and advocacy

Yes! IMHC25 is for you if you’re looking for…

Open and connected conversations around the most pressing issues facing our sector
Up-to-date research and application based presentations around innovations in mental health
Practical tools and strategies to create immediate and positive change in your work and the work of your team
Thoughtful sessions from sector thought-leaders, bright minds and professionals making real impact in the community
A plan for how we pave a path for a safer future for our communities
Information on new initiatives and research within the sector
A break from your every-day to focus on the bigger picture and reconnect with your sector peer

IMHC25 will be the best conference you attend this year!

Not only will you get to spend a few days away from your every-day, connecting with your team/peers and community, you’ll be inspired by the work the sector is doing, and your role within it.

At the conference you’ll be treated to a 5 star catering package, an exclusive networking function, the chance to win awesome prizes and onsite interactive fun learning spaces. Take all the valuable knowledge you’ve gained back into your role, your organisation and your community to see positive steps forward.

This is your chance to connect with your peers, other mental health professionals, researchers, and service providers.

Have a break away from your inbox + the fun stuff

Get ready to enjoy:

A few days at a stunning Gold Coast location, right on the beach, soaking up that Winter sunshine!
An exclusive welcome networking function with drinks, canapes and entertainment 
A full day catering package for the entire conference with morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea
A special gift for returning delegates
The chance to win awesome prizes 
Chillout mindfulness zones 
Access to all recorded keynote presentations (30 days)
Access to all recorded concurrent presentations (30 days)
Access to conference app
Printed conference materials
Over 10 hours towards CPD points
Your personalised certificate of attendance

Keynote Speakers

Anna Lembke, MD

Professor of Psychiatry at Stanford University and author of the New York Times bestseller Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence (Dutton 2021)

**Learn More**

Prof Kairi Kolves — Prof Kairi Kõlves

Professor - Australian Institute for Suicide Research and Prevention
Director - WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention
School of Applied Psychology
Griffith University

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Tegan Schefe

Managing Director - TLS Indigenous Consultancy

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Marc Brackett, Ph.D

Founding Director, Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence

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Mary Ann Baynton

CEO, Mary Ann Baynton & Associates Corp.

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Emma Elder

Lived Experience Program Lead, Black Dog Institute, UNSW

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Nathan Stapleton

Disability awareness & mental health advocate & former professional NRL athlete

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Dr Clinton Schultz

Director, First Nations Strategy and Partnerships, Black Dog Institute

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Penny Jones

District Director Integrated Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs

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From Local Communities to Global Perspectives: Reimagining & Revolutionising Mental Health

With the full program to be created after our presenter applications have been accepted, take a look at the main topics and subtopics which will form the program.

(Click to expand)

Interdisciplinary Approaches: From Community Engagement to Educational Enhancement
- Collaborative Care Models: Exploring the role of interdisciplinary teams in treatment and care.
- School and Community Partnerships: Strengthening early intervention and prevention in youth mental health through collaboration and integrating wellbeing components that support positive mental health for both students and the community.
- Educational Enhancements: Integrating interdisciplinary approaches into the training of professionals.
- Cross-Sector Collaborations: Strategies for building unified community mental health solutions.
Revolutionising Mental Health: Innovations, Challenges and Global Perspectives
- Holistic and Integrative Treatment Approaches: Blending traditional and modern methods, including somatic therapies and body-cantered approaches.
- Technological Innovations: Exploring AI-powered tools, technology-enhanced therapies and the rise of digital and telehealth solutions.
- Emerging Therapies: New insights into Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and other innovative approaches.
- Holistic Wellbeing and Nature's Role: Exploring how mental and physical wellbeing, quality of life, community engagement and societal contribution are interconnected, with nature amplifying benefits in all areas.
- Addressing Global Challenges: Navigating disparities, inequities and the effects of global events.
Transformative Support: New Approaches and Emerging Therapies
- Trauma-Informed Care: Innovations in trauma therapy, including EMDR, somatic experiencing and self-compassion practices.
- Creative and Art-Based Therapies: Leveraging art and creativity in support and recovery.
- Transformative Psychotherapies: Exploring new and emerging psychotherapeutic approaches in care.
Strengthening Lived Experience and Community Support: Advocacy, Research and System Transformation
- Lived Experience in Recovery: Harnessing personal journeys and collective insights for recovery.
- Lived Experience-Led Research: Transforming systems through innovative research approaches.
- Innovative Community Models: Bridging gaps in access and care through community-based services.
- Digital Peer Support: Exploring online platforms and virtual communities for peer support.
- Suicide Prevention through Lived Experience: Leveraging the insights of those with lived experience to develop more effective suicide prevention strategies and support systems.
- Curriculum Innovations: Incorporating lived experience into education and peer support roles.
Inclusive Practices: Supporting LGBTIQ+ and CALD Communities
- Intersectional Perspectives: Addressing the complex mental health needs of marginalised communities, including LGBTIQ+ and CALD individuals and how intersecting identities—race, culture, gender, and sexuality—affect mental health and access to care.
- Culturally Competent and Inclusive Services: Developing trauma-informed, equitable mental health services that meet the diverse needs of LGBTIQ+, CALD and migrant communities, while addressing barriers to access and ensuring effective care for all.
- Peer Support and Community-Led Approaches: Designing peer support programs tailored to LGBTIQ+ and CALD communities, emphasizing lived experience and community-led initiatives to foster resilience and recovery in marginalised populations.
First Nations and Indigenous-Led:
- Culturally Safe Practices for First Nations and Indigenous Peoples: Developing and implementing services that honour the cultural, spiritual and historical experiences of First Nations and Indigenous peoples. Exploring trauma-informed care, traditional healing practices and strategies for overcoming barriers to access.
- Healing Through Cultural Connection: Examining the importance of cultural identity and community in promoting mental health among First Nations and Indigenous populations. Discussing the role of elders, traditional practices and land connection in fostering resilience and recovery.
- Mental Health Initiatives: Showcasing community-driven programs that emphasize cultural safety, lived experience and self-determination to reduce disparities and promote wellness in Indigenous communities.
Innovations in Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing: Research to Action
- Burnout Prevention and Workplace Mental Health: Innovative approaches to prevent burnout and co-design comprehensive initiatives that foster a culture of positive mental health and wellbeing in diverse workplaces, including remote and hybrid settings.
- Inclusive and Supportive Practices: Ensuring initiatives support diverse employee populations, addressing challenges like moral injury, psychosocial harm and breaches of conduct through effective workplace policies and legislation.
- Harnessing Lived Experience: Integrating lived experience workforce to enhance service delivery and systems advocacy.
- Positive Leadership and Employee Mental Health: The critical role of supportive leaders in shaping mental health and wellbeing strategies, fostering a supportive culture and ensuring sustainable wellbeing initiatives in the workplace.
Bridging Gaps: Addressing the Needs of Diverse Populations
- Trauma and Culturally Competent Services for Refugees and CALD Communities: Addressing the challenges of refugees while developing services that meet the unique needs of immigrants and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) populations.
- Mental Well-being in Aging: Addressing the mental health challenges in older populations.
- Veteran Mental Health and Wellbeing: Responding to the unique challenges faced by veterans.
- Neurodiversity in Mental Health: Championing mental health services for neurodiverse populations.
- Suicide Prevention in Diverse Populations: Tailoring suicide prevention strategies to address the specific risks and challenges faced by diverse groups, including refugees, veterans, older adults and neurodiverse individuals.
Navigating the Digital Age: AI, Social Media and Cybersecurity in Mental Health
- AI-Powered Mental Health Tools: The benefits and challenges of AI-driven mental health assessments and interventions.
- Social Media's Impact: Addressing the psychological effects of social media on mental health, including body image, cyberbullying and misinformation.
- Cybersecurity Threats: Exploring the impact of cyber-attacks on services and patient care.
Mental Health Policy, Funding and Equity
- Advocacy for Funding: Addressing the ongoing need for increased mental health funding and resources.
- Policy Reforms: Exploring government initiatives and policy changes to improve service access.
- Equity in Care: Tackling disparities in access to services, particularly for marginalised groups.
Global Mental Health, Wellbeing Crises: Responding to Emerging Challenges
- Impact of Global Events: Addressing the mental health consequences of war, climate change and natural disasters, particularly in vulnerable communities.
- Compounding Crises: Navigating the mental health impacts of pandemics, economic instability and environmental disasters on global populations.
- Post-COVID Social Disconnect: Examining the growing prevalence of isolation and diminished social connection at both individual and workplace levels in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Interdisciplinary Approaches: From Community Engagement to Educational Enhancement

Hear as we discuss what is happening in the field vs what needs to happen to support our workers as they face unprecedented demand and challenges. Learn the most up-to-date research, data and evidence-based plans from around the world.

Stay up to date with future projections.

Hear from experts on what the mental health workforce of the future looks like. Learn how we can support the longevity of our workforce and strategically manage our workforce.

Tap into more advanced work systems and care models.

Access the latest tech advancements and industry innovations to improve multi-sectoral collaboration and service standards to support better mental health.

Feel connected to your global community of mental health industry professionals.

Gather with likeminded sector professionals from both near and further afield to share stories, experiences and future plans for the sector.

Open your mind – expand your experience.

Shift your perspective and learn how to embed culturally responsive models of care our Indigenous, First Nations and CALD communities from around the world.

Share, Collaborate and Listen.

Collaborate with your peers and learn from others in the field. Have your voice, research or insights seen and heard either as a presenter, or during the interactive Pan-Shops. This is your chance to create transformation in our sector.

Take time out from your everyday to plan a stronger tomorrow.

Take a break from your normal work week. We know you need it. Experience this event and get your fingers on the information which will allow you to provide exceptional mental health services to your community whilst fueling your own desire for creating meaningful change in the industry.

The IMHC Conference Committee

Dr Jacinta Hawgood PhD

MClinPsy, BPsy(Hons), BSSc, MAPS, MICDA, Associate Professor, Suicidology, Griffith University

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Heidi Sturk

Director, eMHPrac (e-Mental Health in Practice), Queensland University of Technology

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Zoey Ka

Principal Project Officer, Lived Experience, Queensland Health

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Emily Preston

Innovation Lead, Ember Innovations

**Learn More**

Dr Kim Hamrosi

Chief Executive Officer, Corporate Mental Health Alliance Australia

**Learn More**

Jason Haitana

Ngati Tuwharetoa Te Ati Haunui a Paparangi Ngati Maruwharanui | Principal Advisor Lived Experience, Hauora Maori Services Directorate | Te Whatu Ora

**Learn More**

Andy Greenshaw — Dr Andrew J. Greenshaw PhD

Professor of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, University of Alberta, Canada

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Dr Aimee Gayed

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Black Dog Institute

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Iudita Trifa-Schmidt

Chief Executive Officer, Out Doors Inc.

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Simon Rinne

Social Worker and Founder of Mindful Men

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Sandra Surace

Workplace Mental Health and Wellbeing Specialist and Counsellor

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Taimi Allan

South Australia Mental Health Commissioner

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Katherine Koh

Learning Consultant & Deputy Lead, Growth & Partnerships, National University of Singapore

**Learn More**

Martina McGrath

Lived Experience Practitioner

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Ellie Hodges

Chief Executive and Founder Lived Experience Leadership & Advocacy Network, LELAN

**Learn More**

$ 549 + GST

Virtual

Live streaming of all keynote presenters
Live streaming of all sessions in the plenary room over two-day conference period
Virtual presentations
Complete online access to audio and visual presentations for 30 days*
Over 10 hours towards CPD points
Your personalised certificate of attendance

$ 1,499 + GST

In-Person

All keynote presentations
All concurrent presentations
Discounted accommodation rates
Access to conference app
5-star conference catering package
Access to exclusive networking functions
Complete online access to audio and visual presentations for 30 days post-event
Printed conference materials
Over 10 hours towards CPD points
Your personalised certificate of attendance
Exposure for your organisation
Plus, chances to win great prizes!

$ 3,897 + GST

In-Person Group of Three (3 pax)

All keynote presentations
All concurrent presentations
Discounted accommodation rates
Access to conference app
5-star conference catering package
Access to exclusive networking functions
Complete online access to audio and visual presentations for 30 days post-event
Printed conference materials
Over 10 hours towards CPD points
Your personalised certificate of attendance
Exposure for your organisation
Plus, chances to win great prizes!

HAVE A TEAM OF 4 OR MORE?

Fill in this form to receive a personal call from our team with your best possible rate.

“Absolutely amazing conference with a diverse range of speakers.”

“Everything about the International Mental Health Conference 2022 is exceptional. The calibre of presenters is extremely high, and I feel very privileged to have been able to attend. I wholeheartedly recommend it as a leading conference for anyone in the mental health field.”

“Very worthwhile, engaging workshops and inspiring speakers.”

“This is a conference worth attending, great sessions and presentations, well organised and related to my work.”

“This was an excellent and amazingly informative conference. I am eager to attend next year and would highly recommend it to anyone working in mental health. I especially liked hearing from people with lived experience and the presentations about latest evidence-based research was very useful. Having the opportunity to connect and engage with exhibitors during the conference was a highlight.”

“The 2022 IMHC was another great event, a fantastic opportunity to meet and learn from mental health professionals across the globe. Thank you to the ANZMHA.”

“Thanks for all the info I’ve had a fantastic time feeling refreshed and energized to go back for the workplace with ideas.”

“Thoroughly enjoyed hearing many different perspectives and ideas regarding mental health, from a broad range of people and cultures. Gave me a lot to think about. I also had the opportunity to meet many new people and started brainstorming some ways that we can all work together in better, and smarter ways!”