Japan

Japan and Australia sign important Memorandum of Understanding

November 29, 2010

Dr Takeshima, Director of Mental Health administration of the National Institute of Mental Health and National Centre of Neurology and Psychiatry (NCNP) Japan, and Dr Hisomu Chiba, Director of Japan Mental Health Association and President of Seinan Hospital, visited Melbourne in late November 2010.  

The purpose of the visit was to celebrate the signing of an MoU in mental health training and research between the NCNP and the University of Melbourne, coordinated by the Department of Psychiatry. The signing of the MoU has strengthened the collaboration between NCNP and AAMH, beginning with the development of a 5 year strategic plan for the collaboration’s activities and the formation of a bilateral steering committee.  The committee will assist in the development of the plan and oversee its implementation.

AAMH is privileged and excited to be involved in this 5 year program and the many opportunities this will bring for creative and interesting projects for Australian and Japanese mental health professionals.

While in Melbourne, Dr. Takeshima and Dr. Chiba visited key community mental health centres in Melbourne, including Footbridge Community Care Unit, SANE, Orygen Health, and Spectrum.

Dr Takeshima and Dr Chiba also met with Dr. Karleen Edwards, Executive Director, Mental Health and Drugs Division, Department of Health, as well as spending time with Dr Eugen Koh, Director, Cunningham Dax collection.

An important dinner was also held at the University of Melbourne, to celebrate the signing of the MoU.  Speaking at the dinner, the Cato Chair of Psychiatry Professor Ian Everall, and AAMH Chairman, Professor David Castle, spoke of the strong relationship between Japan and Australia in community mental health, and the opportunities this MoU will create for a sustainable partnership.