The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified mental illnesses as the leading causes of disability in the 21st century. The Commonwealth of Australia recognizes the sense of urgency for access to mental health care, especially for industrializing countries. Australia commends the World Health Organization for working to bring the long-neglected issue of lack of access to mental health resources to the forefront of its agenda. The Australian Mental Health Rights and Responsibilities maintains that “all people have inherent dignity and worth”. and are entitled to equal protection of their human rights [including that] of mental health consumers.” This privilege is also firmly established in the Global Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2020 (WHA66.8). Australia believes this action plan serves as a springboard to further reduce the stigma and discrimination faced by individuals and their families when seeking mental health services, which will contribute to WHO's mission to promote the well-being of all individuals, societies, and countries. Australia also finds mental health problems to contribute to large economic and social costs (A/RES/65/95). As a member of the World Health Organization's executive committee, Australia aims to address this issue and collaborate with other nations on programs that provide mental health resources to people who need them. Australia is committed to investing in public health initiatives. From 2009 to 2013, the Common Wealth of Australia provided $64 million in assistance to WHO for the implementation of the Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSP). Australia will continue to fund this program as well as those geared specifically towards mental health. Australia...... half of the document ......al, and the reproductive health of women and girls stated in the resolution (A/RES/67/146). Australia supports victims of female genital mutilation as a member of the Joint Program on Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting, which aims to further contribute to the promotion of gender equality. Australia plans to improve women's health not only by funding WHO initiatives, but also proposes to further fund education, which contributes significantly to the advancement of women and girls, through UNESCO and UNICEF . Australia believes education can help achieve the Third Millennium Development Goal where women will not have to resort to abusive relationships to survive but will instead be empowered to lead healthy, independent lives. Australia calls on all nations to unite, take action and collaborate in initiatives that advance health, human rights and equity.