From lived experience to peer support – NZ’s first mental health minister on what makes him tick

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From lived experience to peer support – NZ’s first mental health minister on what makes him tick

Patrice
Dougan
Matt Doocey
Matt Doocey has experience of navigating his own mental health issues. He pushed for the creation of a dedicated mental health minister, and took up the role after the 2023 election [Image: Hagen Hopkins]

When the Coalition Government formed in November 2023, Matt Doocey became the country’s first mental health minister. Following a Cabinet reshuffle in January, he is now solely focused on that portfolio. Deputy editor Patrice Dougan spoke to him about the role, his priorities, and the car crash that changed his life

ESSENTIALS Matt Doocey is New Zealand’s first mental health minister. Mr Doocey has a background in counselling psychology and has worked in m, READ MORE