The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) Queensland Branch welcomes the Queensland State Government’s announcement of an inquiry into the care provided at the Wolston Park Mental Health Institution from the 1950s to the 1990s. This decision comes after decades of advocacy by individuals, families, and carers. 

“Former patients at Wolston Park have reported experiencing abuse, trauma and neglect while in care. We understand that the harm is still felt deeply today for many,” Professor Brett Emmerson AM, Chair of the RANZCP Queensland Branch said. 

“This inquiry will provide former patients of Wolston Park, carers and supporters a platform to talk about their experiences in care. 

“It is a critical step towards making sure individuals are safe and supported in our mental health system, driven by the voices of those with lived experience of mental illnesses and their carers.” 

Prof Emmerson said that whilst mental health care over the last 25 years has greatly improved, it is still not resourced to provide the level of care Queenslanders deserve and require. 

“Queensland currently needs an additional 350 beds and 2000 community mental health staff across the state to care for individuals with mental health conditions. 

"We hope this inquiry, led by the Queensland Mental Health Commission, enhances the ongoing mental health reform and leads to significant improvements in mental health care across the state,” Prof Emmerson said. 

For all other expert mental health information visit Your Health in Mind, the RANZCP’s consumer health information website. 

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org.   

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org. 

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au. 

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.