="Annual

Annual Mental Health Forum

About This event

Join us for a panel discussion on Friday 10th October where our MC, Ivan Frkovic will be joined by panelists Leanne Johnson and Karen Hale-Robertson.

This session will focus on Mental Health in Action: Empowering Workforce Development, Driving Impact & Strengthening Community Care.

Whether you’re a leader, practitioner, or simply passionate about mental health, this forum offers valuable insights and meaningful connections with like-minded professionals. You can read more about our panel of speakers and register your attendance below.

Meet the Speakers

  • Ivan Frkovic

    Ivan Frkovic was appointed Commissioner from 1 July 2017 and brings substantial policy, academic and patient-centred experience to the role, having worked in the Queensland mental health system for over 30 years.

    With a focus on strengthening partnerships and collaboration, he oversees delivery and implementation of the State’s strategic plan for mental health, alcohol and other drugs – Shifting minds.

    Ivan’s experience across government and non-government organisations provides valuable insight to help bring all sectors together to focus on delivering better mental health outcomes for Queenslanders.

    He has made a significant contribution to community mental health through published papers and articles.

  • Leanne Johnson

    Leanne Johnson has more than 20 years’ experience leading disability, mental health, and public health services. She has held senior executive roles across some of Australia’s most complex systems, including serving as Executive Director of a major tertiary teaching hospital in Northern NSW, where she guided more than 6,500 staff through the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Leanne has led one of the country’s largest public mental health services across rural, remote, and metropolitan communities, and now serves as Deputy Chief Executive of a national for-purpose organisation, responsible for disability and mental health portfolios.

    Her leadership is grounded in governance, quality, outcomes, and person-centred care, with a focus on human rights, equality, and dignity. She is known for developing high-performing teams and accountable leaders who deliver meaningful results for the people and communities they support.

    Leanne holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees, an MBA, and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She is also an Evolve accredited Ally for First Nations people. She takes a values-led approach to strategy and transformation, with a strong commitment to inclusion and service excellence.

  • Karen Hale-Robertson

    Karen is a highly experienced health and community services executive. She has more than 25 years of experience in business and program management, policy and advocacy, organisational performance, and stakeholder engagement.

    Karen is committed to reducing health inequalities, social injustices, and other disadvantages affecting vulnerable people in our communities.

More info
Location

Tattersall’s Club, Brisbane City

Date and Time

Friday 10th October, 2025 @ 12:00PM

Cost Details

Free