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Cannabis has become increasingly normalised in Australia — both recreationally and as a medicine. But important new research is adding to the evidence about its relationship with psychosis. ASoP member Prof. Matthew Large and colleagues at UNSW Medicine & Health analysed 149 studies involving more than 70,000 people and found cannabis use was associated with an earlier onset of psychosis. The effect became more pronounced with age, suggesting cumulative exposure may progressi

ASoP has joined leading NSW mental health lived experience, carer and sector organisations — alongside Elizabeth Young, whose daughter Jade was killed in the Bondi Junction attack — in calling for concrete action following the NSW Government's response to the coronial inquest. The joint advocacy, featured by ABC News, welcomed the Government's support for most of the Coroner's recommendations, but warned that "in principle" commitments on critical reforms — including supporte

The NSW Government's response to the Bondi Junction coronial inquest — and the gaps that remain — received prominent coverage in The Sydney Morning Herald this week, with ASoP featuring in the newspaper's lead story. The Government has accepted 11 of the Coroner's 13 recommendations in full, but offered only in-principle support for a key recommendation addressing short- and long-term supported accommodation for people experiencing mental illness and homelessness. ASoP CEO D

ASoP CEO Dr Pramudie Gunaratne joined ABC Drive with Thomas Oriti to discuss the NSW Government's reforms to mental health crisis response, including the new Virtual Mental Health Hub and greater involvement of health professionals in responding to Triple Zero calls. Dr Gunaratne welcomed the investment and the shift away from police being the default response to mental health emergencies, while emphasising that the success of the reforms will depend on what happens beyond th

ASoP has welcomed the NSW Government's t announcement of new funding to support health engagement in crisis response. Speaking to The Guardian, ASoP CEO Dr Pramudie Gunaratne described the reform as "a stronger front door into the mental health system" but cautioned that crisis reform must be backed by investment in ongoing care. “A front door is only useful if there's a house behind it.” “Without enough community mental health services, people will still find themselves stuc

ASoP contributed to today's front page story of The Daily Telegraph examining the tragic alleged murder of Sydney grandfather Quang My Pham. Our thoughts remain with Mr Pham's family and loved ones who have suffered an enormous loss. In speaking with The Daily Telegraph, ASoP CEO Dr Pramudie Gunaratne emphasised the importance of looking beyond the events of a single day and asking whether there were missed opportunities for treatment and support before the tragedy occurred.