$5 Million Funding from Serpentine Foundation to Enhance Psychosis Research at UNSW

In Australia, over 100,000 people live with psychosis, a severe mental health disorder associated with a significantly reduced life expectancy of 10 to 20 years compared to the general population. This announcement coincides with the start of Mental Health Month, highlighting the need for enhanced support and specialist care through the Mindgardens Psychosis Centre.

UNSW is part of the Mindgardens Neuroscience Network, collaborating with the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District within the Randwick Health and Innovation Precinct. This partnership aims to unite researchers, clinicians, educators, and individuals with lived experience to translate research into accessible care that improves the lives of Australians.

Currently, it takes an average of 17 years for scientific advancements to reach clinical practice. The Mindgardens Psychosis Centre aims to shorten this gap by creating a model that integrates clinical care, psychosocial support, research, workforce education, and leadership from those with lived experience, helping individuals with psychosis receive timely benefits from available evidence.

Mindgardens focuses on helping individuals build fulfilling lives rather than solely managing diagnoses. UNSW Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Attila Brungs, emphasized that this significant donation will foster activities that address critical challenges in mental health care.

John Grill AO, representing the Serpentine Foundation and Chair of Mindgardens, stressed the importance of their mental health research, stating the foundation's investment aims to enhance the existing impactful work of Mindgardens, benefiting not only those living with psychosis but also the broader community.

Professor Jackie Curtis AM, Executive Director of Mindgardens, noted that the donation will hasten the translation of research into care, providing more support for individuals with psychosis.

“The opportunity to live a meaningful life means more than just managing symptoms; it encompasses connection with others and the ability to shape one’s future. This partnership will unite specialist care and the expertise of those with lived experience, families, and carers to facilitate this for more Australians,” she said.

UNSW Provost, Scientia Professor Vlado Perkovic, mentioned that this funding will transform the care model for people living with psychosis, enabling faster access to care that fosters participation in work, education, and community life.

Leisa Rathborne, Chief Executive of the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, remarked on the beneficial impact of collaboration among research, practice, and industry, stating that this funding recognizes the need to bridge the gap between discovery and application.

UNSW Chief Advancement Officer, Lindsay Robinson, highlighted the essential role of philanthropy in advancing transformative research, stating that the Serpentine Foundation’s gift will create more opportunities for individuals experiencing psychosis to access meaningful care, connecting them with hope and independence.