Child Mental Health: Latest Guidelines Now Available
09 Sep 2025
The guidelines, created for early childhood health checks, assist GPs in addressing mental health within the broader context of child health.
New national guidelines have been released to help healthcare providers include mental health and wellbeing in early childhood health checks (ECHCs). The launch of the guidelines was welcomed by Dr Tim Jones, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Child and Young Person’s Health.
“Supporting children well means looking at the child in the context of their whole family and environment,” Dr Jones said. “The guidelines focus on what children and families need, rather than solely on diagnosis, helping ensure kids get the right support.”
What the Guidelines Do
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Developed under the National Mental Health Commission, the guidelines aim to broaden existing ECHCs to consider mental health and wellbeing in a holistic way.
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They are not clinical standards and are not intended to encourage over-diagnosing mental illness in children.
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The guidelines are designed for GPs, child and family health nurses, and health workers, including those in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations.
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They incorporate the Children’s Wellbeing Continuum, which focuses on positive, incremental steps such as improving sleep, nutrition, exercise, and communication to support long-term child wellbeing.
Background and Development
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The guidelines are the result of a two-year process, following a 2024 draft and public consultation.
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They complement the National Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy released in 2021.
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Equity of access is a key consideration, as financial barriers, such as gap fees for GP visits, were raised during consultation.
Moving Forward
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Health and Ageing Minister Mark Butler recently suggested that Medicare-funded child health checks could return as part of National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) reforms.
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Dr Jones emphasised that strong relationships with GPs are crucial for accurate assessment and support, as primary care remains central to child wellbeing and development.
The guidelines aim to enhance ECHCs, improve families’ experiences, and provide early support and interventions where needed.
(Source: RACGP / National Mental Health Commission)
