Why economic reform is a mental health priority for young people
Young people are facing a convergence of economic pressures, including underemployment and insecure work, rising rent and housing costs, growing out‑of‑pocket expenses for care, minimum wages that have not kept pace with the cost of living, and the increasing cost of education. These pressures are not just financial – they are profoundly shaping mental health outcomes. Join us at this breakfast event for a timely conversation on why these forces demand policy attention beyond the health system. Hosted by the Orygen Policy Centre, this event brings together leading voices across economics, systems modelling, public policy and lived experience to explore how structural drivers are shaping the wellbeing of young Australians – and what meaningful reform could look like. Speakers include: Professor Jo Robinson – Scientific Director, Orygen Policy Centre Dr Richard Denniss – Co‑Chief Executive Officer, The Australia Institute Tara Tjahjadi – Lived Experience Researcher, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney Associate Professor Jo‑An Occhipinti – Head of Systems Modelling & Simulation, Brain and Mind Centre, University of Sydney Thomas Walker – CEO, Think Forward Moderated by Sam Koslowski – Co-Founder of The Daily Aus. Who should attend: Policymakers and government advisors Mental health and social policy professionals Researchers and academics Advocates and community leaders Anyone interested […]
