About the AST
Embark on a journey in mental health with Advanced Specialised Training (AST) as part of the ACRRM Fellowship program.
For many people living in rural and remote communities, general practice is often the first — and sometimes only — point of access for mental health care. With mental health conditions contributing to more than 70% of general practice presentations, there is a growing need for clinicians with advanced skills to deliver timely, high-quality care close to home.
This AST responds to that need by equipping Rural Generalists with the expertise to diagnose, treat and manage acute and chronic mental health conditions locally, improving access to care and health outcomes for rural communities.
Choose an AST in Mental Health and become a skilled advocate for mental health, making a tangible impact where it's needed most.
What the Mental Health AST looks like in practice
Curriculum highlights / credentials
A Rural Generalist who completes the AST in Mental Health can:
- work independently as a senior medical officer in a rural hospital
- work without local specialist mental health support
- work as part of an on-site team with other skilled medical, nursing and allied health practitioners
- provide primary and secondary and emergency care
- diagnose and manage common acute and chronic mental health conditions
- diagnose and manage less common or more complex, acute and chronic mental health conditions with consideration of clinical services capability
- provide an advisory resource in mental health to other Rural Generalists
- maximize the effectiveness of specialist outreach and telemedicine services in their communities
- assist in training Rural Generalists
- assist in the development, provision and promotion of mental health services
- engage in, foster, and encourage research
- develop health policies and procedures for mental health services.
I use my AST in Mental Health every single day as a Rural Generalist, whether it be in the practice, emergency, on the ward or in my roles as an educator, mentor/supervisor, advocate and health service leader. The training I received has allowed me to make a real difference in my community by improving access and acceptability of mental healthcare, locally. My favourite part of what I do is the GP psychotherapy and Clinical Art Therapy as part of my GP work. I did not know the Mental Health AST role could be so diverse!
Dr Ebonney van der Meer
Where you can complete this AST
Training must be completed in an ACRRM training post accredited in mental health which you can browse below.
Got a question about training?
You can call us on 1800 223 226 or contact the training team.