The Tasmanian Statewide Mental Health Services is implementing changes to allied health professional (AHP) staffing, reviewing all vacant AHP 3 roles—which are typically held by experienced clinicians such as psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, or social workers—and aiming to replace them with more junior AHP 2 or AHP 1–2 positions.

Steve Hayes, clinical lead at Devonport's Adult Community Mental Health Service, criticized the move as "ludicrous," warning that downgrading roles would lead to longer waiting lists and force senior clinicians to spend more time supervising junior staff rather than directly assisting patients. Hayes noted that new clinicians hired into AHP 3 roles usually have at least two years of clinical experience and can manage a caseload of about 20 patients immediately, whereas junior hires carry smaller caseloads and require supervision.

The changes will affect allied health staff across Tasmania, including those at the Royal Hobart Hospital. A Department of Health document obtained by ABC News states the reforms aim to provide clearer role definitions, create a more visible career progression pathway, and build a sustainable workforce.

Robbie Moore, state secretary of the Health and Community Services Union (HACSU), said the "declassification" is occurring across the allied health workforce, impacting social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and psychologists.

Cecily Rosol, the Greens' health spokesperson, suggested the changes are a form of cost cutting. She stated, "We know the government are looking for a way to cut $700 million from the health budget, and this is an underhanded way for them to snake cuts in by downgrading positions."

Hayes also mentioned that the service's capacity has diminished and is now only accepting the most serious cases.

Sources