NSW Mental Health Reform: Paramedics Replace Police in Some 2026

NSW mental health reform is set to change emergency response, with paramedics and specialist nurses replacing police in some mental health crises. This major shift, announced by ministers Rose Jackson and Yasmin Catley, aims to provide a health-led response and prevent tragic deaths. The state has committed $270 million over ten years to transform how triple zero calls are triaged.

What the NSW Mental Health Reform Includes

The reform introduces a new 24/7 team of mental health experts who will assess all mental health-related triple zero calls. This ensures that callers receive appropriate clinical guidance from the start. Additionally, a new hub will provide real-time advice to NSW Ambulance first responders, helping them make safer decisions on the scene.

Eight new mental health teams, each comprising a paramedic and a specialist mental health nurse, will be deployed to call-outs. However, these teams will only operate 12 hours a day and are not yet statewide, leaving gaps in coverage during night hours.

Comparison with Existing Co-Response Model

Why This Reform Is Needed

The reform follows multiple deaths involving police during mental health incidents, including the fatal shooting of 42-year-old Jesse Deacon in 2023. Advocates have long pushed for a health-led approach, arguing that police are not equipped to handle mental health crises. The UK’s “right person, right care” model inspired this change.

Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that mental health crises do not follow a 12-hour schedule, calling the reform “only the beginning.” The government plans to scale the initiative statewide eventually, but for now, coverage is limited.

Key Takeaways from the Reform

• New 24/7 mental health triage for triple zero calls
• Eight health-led response teams with paramedics and nurses
• $270 million investment over ten years
• Real-time clinical advice for ambulance responders
• Still gaps in 24/7 coverage and statewide reach

What This Means for Mental Health Emergencies

For individuals experiencing a mental health crisis, this reform means a greater chance of receiving compassionate, medical care rather than a police response. This can reduce trauma and improve outcomes. However, outside the 12-hour window, police may still be the first responders, which remains a concern for advocates.

The state government is committed to expanding the program, but the timeline is unclear. In the meantime, families like Judy Deacon’s continue to campaign for comprehensive change.

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