Abstract
The National Mental Health Policy has brought about a realisation that data on the mental health of Australians are sparse. This applies to the three levels of morbidity in the general population, the mental health component in general practice and the use of specialist services. This paper considers what epidemiological information is now needed to guide policy. There has probably never been a more opportune time to make a useful contribution to the nation's mental health services through well-planned epidemiological research.