This report presents procedures for national mental health that involve many levels of government and draws advice from a range of professional organizations. Due to the enormous impact of depression on the social, human, economic, and public health costs to Australians and the Australian government, this initiative focuses efforts on dealing with and treating depression. Research suggests that gains can be achieved against depression through strategic promotion, prevention, community education, early intervention, and treatment. This report does not attempt to present evidence for treatment; rather it provides readers who have a general interest in health information on how to combat depression. Chapter 1 presents an overview of mental health in Australia. Chapter 2 provides a detailed profile of depression. Chapter 3 describes data on indicators of depression. Chapter 4 looks at issues related to prevention, management, and treatment. Chapter 5 presents examples of intervention projects underway in the Commonwealth, States, and Territories, and chapter 6 considers avenues for future program development. Appendix 1 presents statistical data on depression in Australia, Appendix 2 provides an overview of the gaps in national health related data collection, and Appendix 3 shows the framework for a 3-year plan on depression. (Contains 251 references.) (JDM)