On Tuesday, Eddie Bartnik was appointed as WA's Mental Health Commissioner. Graham Jacobs, Mental Health Minister declared his appointment.

Western Australia is the first state to get a Mental Health Commissioner.

Dr. Jacobs said, "This year, the Liberal-National Government has delivered the first-ever Mental Health Commission to drive reform and we have the first-ever ring-fenced budget of more than $506 million for mental health".

Jacobs said that the appointment of the first Mental Health Commissioner signifies the importance that the Government is giving to mental health.

Working as a Director-General of WA's Department for Communities since last September, Mr. Bartnik has earlier worked with the Disability Services Commission.

According to a statement from Dr. Jacobs' office, Bartnik was able to bring reforms in the disability service systems. He was successful in making them more receptive to a person’s needs.

Mr. Bartnik will step in his new position from mid-August.

Amanda Wheeler, Lifeline WA Chief Executive said that the appointment underlines the fact that how significant mental health is to "general well being". She added that at present, their focus is to make room for their services.

Ms. Wheeler is optimistic that added resources would fortify the system further.