Commonwealth of common mental health: the need for a comprehensive overhaul of corporate governance in mental healthcare in Australia

Objective: We aim to spark renewed discussion of the need for a more effective corporate governance structure for mental health services in Australia. While acknowledging clinical governance faces challenges, we focus here on corporate governance as the overarching level of administration, which profoundly influences delivery of mental healthcare in Australia. Conclusion: Australia’s mental health services are ineffectively governed. Improved corporate governance, including psychiatric expertise, is fundamental to create a comprehensive, effective mental healthcare system in Australia.