
This project aims to improve treatment and early intervention of eating disorders in mainstream mental health settings nationally (Headspace, Medicare Mental Health, Head to Health and Initial Assessment and Referral (IAR)) by embedding evidence-based treatment in care and upskilling frontline mental health clinicians.
Aims
This program is embedding sustainable, system-level improvements in early identification and stepped care for eating disorders in mainstream mental health pathways for the first time. This program has the potential to radically transform the provision of care for people with eating disorders in Australia. It is building the capability and confidence of frontline mental health clinicians in headspace centres, Medicare Mental Health and Head to Health services, and IAR teams nationwide to identify and treat eating disorders as core business by delivering a fit-for-purpose training and education program.
Background
Despite being well-positioned to identify emerging symptoms and respond early in the illness trajectory, generalist mental health services often lack the skills and programs to do so. Systemic barriers to receiving care result in lengthy waitlists and prolonged illness. This project involves the establishment and implementation of an early intervention digitally-supported treatment pathway into nationwide youth mental health clinics (headspace) and corresponding adult services (Medicare Mental Health, Head to Health and IAR).

headspace, Medicare Mental Health, Head to Health and IAR
Subscribe to our newsletter!
© 2026 InsideOut
InsideOut acknowledges the tradition of custodianship and law of the Country on which the University of Sydney and Charles Perkins Centre campus stands. We pay our respects to those who have cared and continue to care for Country. We are committed to diversifying research and eliminating inequities and discrimination in healthcare. We welcome all people regardless of age, gender, race, size, sexuality, language, socioeconomic status, location or ability.