Trask LauraLAURA TRASK (ACT): Thank you Madam Speaker. Mental health is an issue that touches every New Zealander. I think every single person in this room will have somebody—whether it's whānau whether it's your friends or yourself—that has experienced some kind of mental health. It's clear that mental health services are facing serious challenges and it's time for us to approach this issue with a fresh perspective.Despite the significant investment announced in Budget 2019 almost nobody is satisfied with the state of mental health and addiction services in our country. In fact this is a real shame and it's something we honestly should not be proud of at all. Our youth suicide rate is a heartbreaking statistic and it's an area where New Zealand a country accustomed with leading the world in many areas unfortunately has the worst record. People seeking treatment often describe a system that is complex and difficult to navigate. Sometimes they simply are giving up. There are disparities based on location lack of options for services that meet individuals' and the community's needs.Non-governmental organisations have voiced concerns about the lack of fairness and genuine partnership citing a power imbalance as Government agencies often prioritise their own services over community providers. There's also been a notable absence of a whole-Government approach to mental wellbeing. The Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) (Improving Mental Health Outcomes) Amendment Bill represents a positive step forward. It provides a strategy that we desperately need in this space. I agree that the mental health Act needs a full overhaul but this is a good starting position and I'd like to congratulate the member the Hon Matt Doocey for bringing this forward and now actually Katie Nimon.New Zealand has some of the highest rates of mental health issues globally which I just discussed. However these statistics—our mental health system is still struggling with those long wait times and limited access to services. Good mental health is not about the absence of mental illness; it's about our overall wellbeing. It enables us to lead fulfilling lives contribute to our communities and reach our full potential. It's also closely linked to our physical health with poor mental health increasing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.Grassroots organisations and NGOs play a crucial role in reaching our vulnerable communities. They understand the unique needs of our communities and can tailor their services accordingly. However many of these organisations are facing financial challenges and staff shortages. By investing in these organisations we can assure that everyone has the access to the support they need regardless of where they live.I've had the privilege of meeting with various organisations now that I've taken on the spokesperson role for mental health within the ACT Party. Some of these not-for-profit organisations are the sole support providers in our rural areas such as Twizel where access to public services can involve a really long journey to get to your public health system. These organisations are essential in bridging the gaps in meeting the needs of our remote communities.A lack of choice and services is a significant issue for those seeking assistance. A one-size-fits-all approach to mental health care can be more harmful than helpful. Individuals need to be able to access care and services that best suit their needs. While we support the devolution of funding to communities and their organisations we must also ensure that there are strict criteria for funding services and that services are monitored to ensure New Zealanders receive high-quality care.The public sector also has a role to play in supporting mental health. This includes funding and regulating mental health services as well as working to reduce the stigma and promote mental health literacy. We need a coordinated approach that brings together Government agencies NGOs and communities to make mental health a priority for everybody. I'm proud that this Government is addressing the issues that have previously not been addressed adequately. Mental health is a pressing issue and demands immediate attention. We need action. The ACT Party believes everybody should have access to high-quality mental health services regardless of their background or their circumstances. We support this bill and I eagerly await the select committee's recommendations. Thank you.