A Month of Mental Health Awareness Across Australia

October is a significant time for those of us working in the mental health space. With Mental Health Month and Week initiatives taking place across New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia, it’s an opportunity to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, encourage meaningful conversations, and celebrate the steps we all take—individually and collectively—toward better mental health.

• In New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT, the theme “Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey” reminds us that mental health is a lifelong journey. Progress isn’t always linear, and that’s okay. Every step—whether forward, sideways, or paused—is part of the process and deserves recognition.
• In Queensland, “Connect for mental health” focuses on the power of connection. Whether it’s with ourselves, our communities, loved ones, or nature, connection plays a vital role in building resilience and fostering wellbeing.
• In Western Australia, the theme for Mental Health Week is “Empowering Communities, Thriving Workforces”, which centres around the concept of power.

Together, these themes reflect the multifaceted nature of mental health—emphasising personal growth, social connection, and community empowerment. They remind us that mental wellbeing is not just an individual responsibility, but a shared commitment across workplaces, families, and communities.

Aurora Healthcare’s Chief Executive Officer, Daria Simic says,

“We’re proud to support all these initiatives and recognise the importance of this month for our staff, patients, and communities. We’re celebrating across our hospitals and look forward to amplifying local activities that reflect the spirit of these themes. From quiet moments of reflection to community-led events, we’re committed to doing our part in honouring mental health awareness.”

This October, we’re not just acknowledging mental health awareness—we’re actively participating in it. Across our hospitals, teams are engaging in meaningful activities that reflect the themes of empowerment, connection, and personal wellbeing. From staff-led initiatives to community events, we’ll be showcasing how each site is contributing to the conversation and supporting mental health in practical, visible ways.

We’ll be sharing these stories throughout the month to highlight the incredible work happening on the ground and to inspire continued awareness and action. Mental health matters—this month and every month—and we’re proud to be part of the movement driving change.

What's On Across the Aurora Network

Belmont Private Hospital, Qld

During Queensland Mental Health Week 2025, Belmont Private Hospital is hosting a vibrant program of activities to promote wellbeing, creativity, and connection among patients, carers, and the broader hospital community. The week begins with a wellness morning offering nails and massages for BCPND and Women’s wards, followed by the opening of the 2025 Art & Craft Exhibition with afternoon tea in the hospital’s main corridor. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a crochet stall, creative workshops like painting bricks or American message sticks, and informative sessions such as a dietician-led talk on eating for health and wellbeing. A guided walk and a Family & Carer Forum provide opportunities for reflection and support. Later in the week, activities include a creative writing session, a visit from a baby animal farm, live music from The Men’s Shed Band, a BBQ and sausage sizzle, and court games to round off the celebrations. These events aim to foster community, raise awareness, and support mental health in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Townsville Private Clinic, Qld

During Queensland Mental Health Week 2025, Townsville Private Clinic is celebrating connection, creativity, and community through a diverse program of events. The centrepiece is the 6th Annual Art Exhibition, showcasing over 60 works—including paintings, poetry, and mixed media—created by current and past clients and community members with lived experience of mental health challenges. The exhibition aligns with the theme “Connect for mental health”, offering a space for expression and inclusion. Throughout the week, the clinic is also hosting free art therapy sessions, music therapy, meditation, and professional education workshops to promote wellbeing and reduce stigma. A key initiative is the Blue Tree Project, where a tree is being painted and planted on-site to raise awareness for suicide prevention. Additionally, Townsville Private Clinic participated in the Townsville Launch and Consultation Forum for the Joint Regional Wellness Plan, reinforcing its commitment to collaborative mental health care across North Queensland.

Kellyville Private Hospital & South Coast Private Hospital, NSW

During NSW Mental Health Month 2025, South Coast and Kellyville Clinics are embracing the theme “Connect with Community” by hosting a special afternoon tea and information session at each location. These events are designed to support anyone who is caring for or supporting someone through their mental health journey. Open to both community members and the families, friends, and carers of current patients, the sessions will feature a presentation from clinic psychologists focused on understanding mental health challenges from a support person's perspective. Attendees will gain practical strategies for providing care, learn about available support services, and be encouraged to engage in open conversations around mental health to help build awareness and connection within the community.

Toronto Private Hospital, NSW

Toronto Private Hospital is marking Mental Health Awareness Month with a vibrant calendar of activities designed to support wellbeing and connection. Under the theme “Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey,” the month features an inspiring Art Show launching on 8 October, celebrating creativity and personal expression. Patients and staff are invited to start each day with a 9:15am walk, enjoy uplifting morning teas every Wednesday at 10am, and unwind with gentle yoga sessions on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11am. Fridays offer a chance to relax and recharge with nourishing foreshore patient picnics at 2pm, leading up to a highlight of the month—a patient and staff BBQ on Friday, 10 October at 12pm. These events aim to foster mindfulness, movement, and meaningful moments throughout October.