The first national research hub dedicated to eating disorders was launched last week.
NSW Minister for Mental Health Tanya Davies and federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt launched the InsideOut Institute for Eating Disorders, which they said would be home for the NSW research team.
“The Institute’s renewed research agenda is really exciting,” Ms Davies said. “We’ve worked closely with the institute since 2013 to deliver the country’s first dedicated service plan for eating disorders and it’s been a game-changer for improving the care we provide patients and families.
“The announcement complements the NSW government’s commitment to improving access to evidence-based care for people with eating disorders.”
The NSW government has committed more than $400,000 a year to the institute for the continued implementation of the NSW Service Plan for People with Eating Disorders, which includes specialist training for frontline staff and workforce development. An additional $1.2 million has also funded ongoing projects.
The institute, formerly known as the Centre for Eating and Dieting Disorders, is a collaboration between Sydney Local Health District and the University of Sydney.
Mr Hunt declared support for the institute and its commitment to helping the more than one million Australians living with an eating disorder.
“Bringing eating disorders out of the dark and into the light of public discourse is essential to drive change and I applaud the InsideOut Institute’s mission to further transform the Australian treatment landscape for eating disorders,” he said.
Institute Director Dr Sarah Maguire said the launch at the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkins Centre was an important step in driving forward a national research agenda for eating disorders.
“Eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness – fortunately, they’re solvable,” she said. “Our research work will explore innovative treatments and better ways to intervene with early intervention.”
The NSW government’s total investment in services for people living with an eating disorder in 2017-18 is $5.8 million.
Those seeking help should be advised to contact the NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511, and for crisis support, Lifeline: 13 11 14.
