NSW Mental Health Reform: Paramedics Replace Police in Some 2026

New South Wales mental health reform now sends paramedics and specialist nurses instead of police to certain mental health emergencies, a change that aims to reduce deaths and improve care. This statewide shift, announced by ministers Rose Jackson and Yasmin Catley, redefines emergency response for people in crisis. The $270 million initiative, funded over ten years, introduces a 24/7 mental health triage team and eight new health-led response units.

Why This Mental Health Reform Was Needed

The reform follows multiple fatalities involving police during mental health call-outs, including the 2023 shooting of Jesse Deacon, a 42-year-old man with schizophrenia. His mother, Judy Deacon, became a prominent advocate for change, highlighting the need for health professionals, not armed officers, to handle crises. The new model, inspired by the UK's "right person, right care" approach, aims to provide compassionate, clinical support.

Key Components of the New Response System

The plan includes a dedicated hub where mental health experts assess triple zero calls around the clock. This team provides real-time advice to ambulance responders, helping them make safer decisions. Additionally, eight new mental health teams—each comprising a paramedic and a specialist nurse—will offer on-scene support, but only during 12-hour windows and not statewide yet.

Outside these hours, police or the existing Police Ambulance and Clinical Early Response (Pacer) model will still respond. Advocates have criticized Pacer for lacking 24/7 coverage, but Minister Jackson calls this reform "only the beginning," with potential to scale statewide.

Comparison: Old vs. New Response Model

What This Means for Mental Health Emergencies

For individuals in crisis, this reform means a greater chance of receiving medical care rather than a police encounter. The new triage system ensures that calls are assessed by professionals who understand mental health conditions, reducing the risk of escalation. However, the limited hours and geographic coverage mean many still rely on police, so further investment is crucial.

Key Takeaways

• NSW introduces health-led response for some mental health emergencies.
• $270 million funds 24/7 triage and eight new teams.
• Reform follows deaths like Jesse Deacon's, pushing for change.
• Coverage is partial—12 hours a day, not statewide.
• Experts call for scaling up to ensure round-the-clock safety.

FAQ

Looking Ahead

Minister Jackson emphasizes that this is a first step, and advocates hope for expansion to full statewide 24/7 coverage. The reform represents a significant cultural shift in emergency response, prioritizing health over enforcement. As the program rolls out, its success will be measured by reduced fatalities and improved outcomes for those in mental health distress.

For now, the change offers hope to families like the Deacons, who have fought for a system that treats mental health as a medical issue, not a criminal one.