2026 Mental Health Symposium: a powerful night of local connection and collaboration
A more connected, compassionate mental health system is possible – and it starts locally.
On Thursday 26 March, almost 200 local clinicians, community leaders, lived‑experience advocates and sector partners came together for the Sydney North Health Network Mental Health Symposium. The evening created space for open, honest conversations about what truly integrated, place‑based and person‑centred care can look like across Northern Sydney.
From the outset, the level of engagement in the room was clear. Attendees described the presentations as “excellent,” with one participant noting they were “totally focused and immersed” throughout the night. Others reflected that SNHN forums are consistently “informative and engaging,” reinforcing the value of coming together to share ideas, challenge assumptions and build momentum for change.
A key theme that emerged was that place matters.
Communities across Northern Sydney have different strengths, challenges and priorities, and our systems must be designed to reflect this diversity. As many speakers and panelists highlighted, a one‑size‑fits‑all approach simply doesn’t work. Local voices, local knowledge and lived experience are essential if we are to design services that genuinely meet community need.
The panel discussion and Q&A were a highlight of the evening. The format encouraged meaningful dialogue and allowed audience questions to shape the conversation. Participants described the session as “engaging throughout,” with many appreciating the opportunity to hear a wide range of perspectives. One attendee reflected that the keynote speaker and panel demonstrated “a wide range of knowledge in what is missing in the system,” while also expressing a strong appetite for future conversations focused on practical solutions and better integration across the health system.
Connection beyond the stage was just as important. Attendees valued the opportunity to speak directly with PHN representatives, describing these conversations as both informative and encouraging. The sponsor expo was also well received, with feedback highlighting how well organised and useful it was in showcasing local services and supports.
Across the night, there was a strong sense of optimism and shared purpose. As one participant put it, “Keep hopeful – there are a lot of us who want to help.” That sentiment captured the spirit of the symposium: a collective willingness to listen, learn and work together to strengthen mental health care across our region.
The conversations don’t end here. The Neighbourhood Health Hubs are being built with clinicians, community organisations and lived‑experience leaders at the centre, and your voice matters.
If you work in primary care, mental health, community services or allied health in Northern Sydney, we invite you to stay connected and be part of what comes next.
Check here for upcoming co‑design sessions and opportunities to help shape the future of care – let’s build it together.