AIA Australia CEO Damien Mu has been named an ambassador for Australians for Mental Health (AfMH), a national organisation focused on mental health advocacy and systemic reform.
The partnership aims to drive significant improvements in mental health support and policy by fostering collaboration among businesses, government, and community stakeholders.
AfMH executive director Chris Gambian welcomed Mu’s appointment, highlighting his expertise in the insurance sector.
“I am excited today to announce that Damien Mu will be bringing his decades of experience to our campaign to transform Australia’s mental health,” he said.
Mu (pictured) said that AIA Australia has provided financial support to AfMH for several years, and his new role reflects a deepened commitment to the cause.
“For the last three years, AIA Australia has contributed financially to Australians for Mental Health, supporting them in their mission to create a fundamental change to how Australia manages the mental health crisis. I’m thrilled to now join them as an ambassador to continue to raise awareness and incite action,” he said.
Last month, AIA Australia introduced “My Psychologist,” a virtual service designed to improve access to mental health care for policyholders and their families.
The service, developed in partnership with Online Psychologists Australia, allows users to book virtual appointments with licensed psychologists. It also facilitates referrals to telehealth-enabled general practitioners for Mental Health Care Plans where required.
Mu said that AIA Australia has witnessed the profound effects of mental illness on individuals and families, with mental health conditions accounting for a significant portion of the company’s income protection claims, rising by 72% since 2019.
The partnership with AfMH aligns with growing demand for mental health services, where one in five individuals experiences mental health issues annually.
In 2023, 30% of adults sought help from psychologists, psychiatrists, or counsellors, but systemic obstacles persist. For example, nearly a third of psychologists have stopped accepting new clients, a sharp increase from pre-pandemic levels.
Affordability also remains a significant concern. A YouGov survey revealed that 21% of Australians consider mental health benefits a priority when selecting insurance plans. However, 56% of respondents cited cost as a barrier to obtaining comprehensive coverage, marking affordability as a critical issue in the sector.
Mu stressed the importance of multi-sector collaboration in addressing these challenges.
“Businesses can work alongside government and not-for-profits to address societal problems. In my role as an ambassador, I will ensure that the voices of our customers navigating the healthcare system are heard,” he said.
