Links 2011 Census data with Medicare (MBS) and PBS records to show who uses subsidised mental health services and medicines. People who spoke a language other than English at home were less likely to use Medicare mental health services, and use was especially low among people born in Asian countries.
Place: National
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Building a New Life in Australia (BNLA): The Longitudinal Study of Humanitarian Migrants
A ten-year study (2013–14 to 2023) that followed about 2,400 people who arrived on humanitarian visas, covering settlement, health and mental health. Researchers can apply to use the data, and it underpins many Australian refugee mental health studies.
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Understanding the mental health and help-seeking behaviours of refugees
A short AIFS research summary using BNLA data. It reports high levels of distress and trauma symptoms among refugees but only about one in five seeking help, usually from family and friends, with stigma, language and cost as barriers.
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Service needs and experiences of culturally and linguistically diverse veterans: Final report
A study based on interviews with 38 veterans from CALD backgrounds about their support needs. It describes racism experienced in the Defence Force and barriers to culturally responsive services, including for mental health.
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If We Don’t Count It… It Doesn’t Count! Towards consistent national data collection and reporting on cultural, ethnic and linguistic diversity
An issues paper arguing that Australia collects data on cultural, ethnic and language diversity poorly and inconsistently, including in health and mental health services. It calls for national data standards.
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International students and their mental health and physical safety
A report, funded by the federal education department, on the mental health and safety of international students in Australia. It looks at the risks they face and how they can be better supported.
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Responding together: Multicultural young people and their mental health
A policy report on the mental health of young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. It notes that most are resilient but that racism and managing a multicultural identity can harm wellbeing, and it makes policy recommendations.
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Designing mental health services for young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds: Good practice framework
A practical guide for Primary Health Networks and services on designing youth mental health services that work for young people from migrant and refugee backgrounds. It was developed with young people, services and PHNs, alongside a literature review.
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Fact sheet: Suicidality among culturally and linguistically diverse communities
A short fact sheet from the national suicide prevention peak body. It says data on suicide in CALD communities is patchy or missing, and highlights higher risk for refugees and people seeking asylum.