Mental health training standards 2026–28: A guide for training providers

Mental health training standards 2026–28

The Mental health training standards 2026–28: A guide for training providers is a document for training providers wishing to find out about:

• the specific training that GPs must complete to be eligible to access general practice mental health care MBS item numbers under the Better Access initiative
• the learning outcomes and course content requirements for GPMHSC-accredited training
• how to apply for accreditation of courses you develop, and what to do after accreditation
• details of ongoing mental health education and training recommended for GPs.

This guide may also be useful for regional training providers who are interested in developing and integrating GPMHSC-accredited mental health courses as part of general practice registrar training.

Changes from the previous edition

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health care recommendations

A list of 15 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recommendations have been added into the 26–28 edition of the GPMHSC Mental Health Standards for Training, to strengthen GP education on the mental health experiences and support efforts to close the gap in social and emotional wellbeing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Training Providers will be required to implement two of the 15 to meet accreditation requirements.
 

Additional information added

• This edition includes:
  • A strengthened consumer and carer section, to ensure training providers are equipped to meaningfully and adequately incorporate the rich lived experiences, insights, and expertise of consumers and carers into their accredited activities. Further information on FPS CPD topics, developing FPS CPD activities, and specifically what needs to be involved for GPs to be able to claim their hours
  • A description of Trauma Informed Care

Alignment with best practice relating to mental health care

After a review of the General Practice Mental Health Training Framework, the Standards now more closely align with best practice relating to the provision of mental health care in general practice.
 

Revised learning outcomes for accredited training in mental health

The learning outcomes of the accredited training in mental health have been revised so that they now align with the learning outcomes and competencies, as outlined in the RACGP curriculum and syllabus for Australian general practice: Mental health, and ACRRM’s Rural Generalist Curriculum for Mental Health.

The learning outcomes relating to practice systems and strategies to provide safe and holistic mental health care now include topics relating to GPs’ self-care and wellbeing.