Hotels Boost Funding For Mental Health

The AHA|SA has committed to extending its groundbreaking partnership to support mental health in South Australia.

This follows the Independent Gaming Corporation Ltd (IGC) approval of a two-year funding for Breakthrough Mental Health Research Foundation to continue the initiative with AHA|SA and Clubs SA.

As part of this continued commitment, Breakthrough will develop targeted strategies to support mental health in the hospitality sector. Industry staff will be equipped with practical tools and education to promote mental

“It’s great to see the hospitality industry taking the Mental Health conversation seriously,” said Breakthrough CEO John Mannion.

“Hospitality venues across South Australia are not just places of social connection but also environments that actively support mental well-being.

“We hope more organisations nationwide get involved.”

The ‘Mental Health First Aid Workshops’ and ‘Wellbeing Programs’ will be delivered to clubs and hotel venues across both metro and regional areas. To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, sessions will also be available at Breakthrough’s head office and online.

The $200,000 commitment builds upon the successful support provided in 2023-2024 and represents a significant investment in mental health initiatives within the club and

Representing more than 700 clubs and hotel venues across South Australia, AHA|SA and Clubs SA play a crucial role in providing social hubs for communities and employment for thousands of staff.

“In collaboration with Breakthrough and Clubs SA, the AHA|SA is working towards a shared vision of enhancing mental health and driving meaningful change within the hospitality sector,” said AHA|SA CEO, Anna Moeller.

“It's great to see the mental health space taken seriously. In our industry, staff are working in challenging customer-facing roles.

“We are thrilled that the IGC has acknowledged the need for dedicated support and research in this area,” Peter Apostolopoulos, CEO of Clubs SA, echoed this sentiment.

“By equipping clubs with the right resources and knowledge, we can create environments where people feel supported and connected,” he said.

Mental health is a crucial issue that affects all Australians. One in five Australians experiences a mental health issue, and suicide remains the leading cause of death among young Australians aged 15-44. These statistics highlight the urgent need for continued support and investment in mental health research and initiatives.

AHA|SA and Clubs SA remain dedicated to fostering healthier, more supportive environments for their staff and patrons.

Through their partnership with Breakthrough, they are taking meaningful steps towards a future where mental health is prioritised, supported, and openly discussed within the hospitality sector.

For more information on Breakthrough’s mental health initiatives, visit their website