In a series of letters, ALSA expressed the view that much more funding is needed in order to bring the quality of mental health services in line with that of physical health services.

ALSA expressed particular concern that the Government's proposed mental health funding package fails to incorporate funds for services needed to treat young Australians suffering from mental illness.

ALSA drew particular attention to the fact that a recent study, conducted by the Brain and Mind Research Institute (BMRI) at Sydney University, found that 41 per cent of law students experience psychological distress severe enough to justify clinical intervention.

According to the BMRI, this figure is much higher than instances in the general population.

This move is the latest in a string on initiatives adopted by ALSA in combating depression in law schools, including working with representatives of law schools across Australia - and within the legal profession - to improve the mental health of all law students.