It is with great sadness that we mark the passing over the weekend of National Mental Health Commissioner, Ms Jackie Crowe.
Jackie was one of the most influential figures in mental health, involved in activities across Australia which brought the voice of the consumer to mental health policies and services.
Jackie had recently been reappointed by the Government as a National Mental Health Commissioner, in recognition of the strong and significant contribution she made to mental health reform.
In addition to her Commissioner role, she also made significant contributions to the Centre of Research Excellence in Suicide Prevention as Chair of the Lived Experience Committee, particularly in the areas of seclusion and restraint, and in the development of performance data for the mental health system.
She was a significant influence in the development of Head to Health, the new mental health website, ensuring that the gateway remained focused on the needs of the people seeking assistance.
Jackie had a strong interest in the use of technology to help people get the support they need quickly and early.
More than anything else, however, Jackie will be remembered for her compassion and tireless energy in helping Australians who had approached her about their mental health concerns.
Jackie’s passing is a huge loss to the mental health community in Australia and many people will miss her greatly.
Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this very difficult time.