Sharon has 21+ years of experience as a qualified Emergency Care Nurse registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (APHRA) and 12+ years as a First Aid Trainer.
She takes pride in FirstAidPro making first aid training available, comprehensive and affordable to everybody.
Key Takeaways
- The 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis is Australia’s newest nationally accredited first aid for mental health qualification.
- FirstAidPro delivers this 100% face-to-face over one day (6 hours) — no online modules — across all Australian states.
- Participants learn the evidence-based Mental Health RULES framework to respond confidently to mental health crises.
- Same-day certificates are issued upon successful completion.
- No prior experience required — open to all adults aged 18 and over with a valid USI.
- Suitable for workers, HR professionals, educators, healthcare staff, WHS officers and community members.
The 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis
This is Australia’s newest nationally accredited first aid for mental health course, designed to equip individuals with practical, evidence-based skills to recognise and respond to mental health crises with confidence.
Mental health challenges affect a significant proportion of the Australian population. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), approximately one in five Australians experiences a mental health condition each year, yet many people lack the knowledge or confidence to provide effective initial support when a crisis unfolds. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in the broader community, the ability to respond appropriately to someone experiencing a mental health crisis can make a meaningful difference to their recovery pathway.
First Aid Pro’s nationally accredited 11379NAT course closes that gap. Delivered entirely face-to-face across all Australian states — including SA, QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, TAS, NT and WA — this one-day program provides you with the hands-on skills, frameworks and confidence to act when it matters most. Same-day certificates are issued upon successful completion.
► ENROL NOW Ready to get certified? Enrol in the 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis with First Aid Pro — Australia’s trusted mental health training provider.
What Is the First Aid For Mental Health Course 11379NAT?
The 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis is a recognised first aid for mental health qualification developed in response to growing demand for practical, accredited mental health support training in Australian workplaces and communities. It represents a significant step forward from general mental health awareness programs, offering structured, practical training grounded in evidence-based best practice.
Course At a Glance
Detail | Information |
Course Code | |
Course Title | |
Duration | 6 hours (one day) |
Delivery | 100% face-to-face — no online modules |
Certificate | Same-day accredited certificate |
States Available | SA, QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, TAS, NT, WA |
Prior Experience Required | None |
Age Requirement | 18 years and over |
How Does 11379NAT Differ From General Mental Health Awareness Training?
Many workplaces offer general mental health awareness programs that provide a useful introduction to mental health concepts. While these programs have great value, they typically stop short of providing a formal, nationally recognised certification or teaching the practical skills required to respond to an active mental health crisis.
The 11379NAT course is specifically designed to build competency in mental health crisis response training. Rather than raising awareness alone, it teaches participants how to apply a structured action plan — the Mental Health RULES framework — in real-world situations. It is delivered entirely face-to-face, ensuring that skills are practised in an environment that mirrors reality, not simply absorbed through reading or watching videos. Upon successful completion, participants receive an official certification for the 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis, recognised nationwide across all Australian states and territories.
What Is the Mental Health RULES Framework?
At the heart of the 11379NAT course you’ll learn the Mental Health RULES action plan — a structured, evidence‑informed framework used to approach, assess and support someone experiencing a mental health crisis. Unlike vague or anecdotal advice, the RULES framework gives participants a reliable process they can apply in any setting.
The Mental Health RULES Framework
A practical, easy-to-remember approach for responding supportively when someone may be experiencing a mental health crisis.
Recognise
Identify the signs and symptoms of a mental health crisis
Understand
Understand the urgency and impact of the situation
Listen
Listen non-judgementally and with genuine empathy
Encourage
Encourage the person to seek appropriate professional help
Support
Provide support through self-help strategies and follow-up
Each step of the RULES framework builds on the last, guiding the responder from initial recognition through to providing practical support and facilitating access to appropriate professional resources. This structured approach replaces uncertainty with confidence and competence.
What Does the 11379NAT Mental Health First Aid Course Cover?
The 11379NAT course is structured into six interactive modules in this program, combining expert instruction with practical exercises, case studies and scenario‑based learning. The aim is not simply to understand mental health at a theoretical level but to develop real, applicable mental health support skills that can be used immediately upon completion.
Course Modules Overview
A clear snapshot of each module topic and the key learning areas covered across the course.
Module 1 — Foundations of Mental Health Support & WHS Obligations
The course begins by establishing a foundational understanding of mental health and your role as a mental health support officer. Participants learn about the evidence-based Mental Health RULES framework and explore the legislative context governing workplace mental health in Australia, including PCBU (Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking) responsibilities under WHS legislation and the importance of identifying and managing psychosocial hazards.
Module 2 — Recognising & Responding to Depression and Suicidal Ideation
This module develops the skills to recognise the signs and symptoms of depression and equips participants with safe, compassionate approaches to support someone experiencing suicidal thoughts. A significant focus is placed on practising difficult conversations — an area many people find confronting but which is critical to effective mental health crisis response.
Module 3 — First Aid for Anxiety, Panic Disorders & Trauma
Participants learn to identify different presentations of anxiety, including panic disorders and post-traumatic stress reactions. The module covers calm, effective first aid protocols for high-anxiety situations and introduces trauma-informed approaches that respect the individual’s experience while providing meaningful support.
Module 4 — Psychosis, Substance Use & Maintaining Safe Boundaries
This module focuses on recognising early warning signs of psychosis and substance-related problems — two areas that can be particularly challenging to navigate without proper training. Participants learn safe, supportive strategies for assisting individuals in crisis while maintaining appropriate professional and personal boundaries.
Module 5 — Crisis Intervention, De-escalation & Emergency Response
Building on earlier modules, this section develops confidence in managing immediate mental health crisis situations. Participants practise de-escalation techniques and learn when and how to involve emergency services. Scenario-based first aid mental health exercises provide real-world readiness and help consolidate skills developed throughout the course.
Module 6 — Referral Pathways & Ongoing Mental Health Support Resources
The final module explores the pathways available for ongoing mental health support for work colleagues, friends and family. Participants identify professional, community and self-help mental health resources and learn how to reduce barriers to help-seeking — a vital skill in supporting individuals beyond the initial crisis.
Who Should Complete the 11379NAT Nationally Accredited Mental Health Course?
This nationally recognised first aid for mental health course is suitable for any adult who wants to build practical skills in recognising and responding to mental health crises. No prior experience is required, making it accessible to both first-time learners and professionals seeking to formalise their existing knowledge through an accredited mental health certification.
Who Should Attend & Key Benefits
Designed for workplaces and communities — build practical confidence to respond safely and supportively when mental health concerns arise.
Workplace Mental Health Training for HR Professionals & WHS Officers
Human resources professionals, workforce coordinators and workplace health and safety officers have a particular responsibility when it comes to workplace mental health. Under Australian WHS legislation, PCBUs are required to manage psychosocial hazards, and completing the 11379NAT course provides the knowledge and accredited mental health training needed to meet those obligations and foster psychological safety across teams.
Mental Health First Aid Certification for Teachers & Educators
Teachers and educators are frequently among the first to observe the early signs of mental health challenges in students and colleagues. The 11379NAT course equips education professionals with the practical skills to respond to mental health crisis situations with appropriate sensitivity and confidence, and to connect individuals with the right professional support.
Mental Health Training for Healthcare & Frontline Support Workers
For nurses, community support workers and frontline responders, the 11379NAT course complements existing clinical expertise with specialised first aid for mental health skills. It provides a formal, structured approach to mental health crisis response that aligns with the high-pressure environments these professionals work in every day.
Community Members & General Employees Seeking Mental Health Accreditation
Anyone who wants to be equipped to help others — whether at work, home or in the community — can benefit from our mental health certificate program. Whether you are a general employee looking to build workplace mental health support skills, or an individual wanting to be better prepared to help a family member or friend, this course equips you with the knowledge and nationally recognised accreditation to respond effectively.
11379NAT Course Eligibility & Enrolment Requirements
Age, USI & Language Requirements for Mental Health Certification
To enrol in the 11379NAT course, participants must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid Unique Student Identifier (USI), which is required for the issuing of nationally accredited certification. In terms of language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) requirements, participants must have basic English skills sufficient to understand learning materials, complete written assessment questions, follow verbal instructions and apply the Mental Health RULES action plan.
Emotional Readiness: What to Expect From This Mental Health Crisis Course
It is important to acknowledge that this course involves genuine engagement with real-world mental health crisis scenarios, including content related to anxiety, psychosis, self-harm and suicidal ideation. First Aid Pro recommends that prospective participants consider their own emotional readiness before enrolling. This is not a barrier to participation but an invitation to approach the course with appropriate care for your own mental wellbeing.
► ENROL NOW Courses run in all states — SA, QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, TAS, NT and WA. Find a nationally accredited 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis near you and secure your place with First Aid Pro today.
What Are the Learning Outcomes of the 11379NAT Mental Health Course?
Completing the 11379NAT course delivers a comprehensive set of practical, nationally recognised mental health support skills. Participants leave with the capability to:
- Identify symptoms of common mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, psychosis and substance use disorders.
- Recognise behavioural changes that may indicate mental health concerns and identify when someone needs immediate support.
- Apply the evidence-based Mental Health RULES framework to recognise, understand, listen, encourage and support individuals experiencing a mental health crisis.
- Apply safe, evidence-based first aid for mental health strategies in high-risk incidents, including situations involving suicidal thoughts, trauma, panic or severe distress.
- Understand PCBU responsibilities under WHS legislation and contribute to managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace.
- Guide individuals towards professional mental health services, understand referral pathways, and know when and how to escalate concerns appropriately.
- Foster psychological safety within teams and contribute to mentally healthy workplace practices.
The 11379NAT course is designed for real-world application. You will leave equipped not just with knowledge but with the mental health support skills and confidence to act when someone needs you most.
How Is the 11379NAT Mental Health Course Assessed & Certified?
Your nationally accredited mental health certification is achieved through a practical, multi-component assessment process conducted throughout the course. There is no separate exam day — assessment is integrated into the learning experience.
Assessment Components
Component | Description |
Knowledge Assessment | Written questions testing understanding of mental health concepts and crisis response |
Practical Scenarios | Apply key knowledge components e.g. the RULES framework, in simulated mental health crisis situations |
Case Studies | Analyse and respond to personal and workplace mental health scenarios in writing |
Participation | Engage actively in role-play exercises, group discussions and skill demonstrations |
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Same-Day Mental Health Certificate?
One of the key practical advantages of the 11379NAT course delivered by First Aid Pro is the same-day certificate. Upon successful completion of the course and all assessment components, participants receive their official certification for the 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis on the day of training. This nationally accredited mental health certificate is recognised across all Australian states and territories, providing immediate, documented evidence of your competency in mental health crisis response. It is recommended that participants refresh their certified mental health crisis response training every three years to ensure their skills remain current and aligned with evolving best practice.
How Much Do You Know About Mental Health First Aid?
Test your understanding of the 11379NAT course content with these five questions. Select an answer for each question, then click Check Answers. Answers appear directly below each question.
What does the "R" in the Mental Health RULES framework stand for?
How long does the 11379NAT course take to complete?
Which of the following is NOT a module in the 11379NAT course?
Under WHS legislation, which body holds responsibility for managing psychosocial hazards in the workplace?
Which of the following best describes psychosocial hazards?
► ENROL NOW Take the next step in your mental health first aid journey. Enrol with First Aid Pro in the nationally accredited 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis and walk away with a same-day certificate, practical skills and the confidence to make a real difference.
Be Prepared to Respond: Build Mental Health Crisis Response Skills with the 11379NAT Course
Mental health crises can occur anywhere — in the office, the classroom, the community or at home. The 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis gives you the practical, nationally accredited skills to respond with confidence, compassion and competence when someone needs you most.
From learning to identify the early warning signs of common mental health challenges to applying the evidence-based strategies, managing crises and connecting individuals to professional support, this comprehensive one-day course equips participants across all industries and backgrounds with tools that genuinely matter.
Whether you are completing your mental health certification for the first time, meeting your workplace WHS obligations, or simply wanting to be better prepared to support the people around you, the 11379NAT course delivered by First Aid Pro offers the practical training, nationally recognised accreditation and same-day certificate you need to make a real difference.
References
- Safe Work Australia. (2022). Work-related psychological health and safety: A systematic approach to meeting your duties. Australian Government.
- Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). (2024). Training Package: 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis.
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2023). Mental health services in Australia. Australian Government.
- Beyond Blue. (2024). The state of mental health in Australian workplaces.
Safe Work Australia: Psychosocial hazards
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 11379NAT course nationally recognised across all Australian states?
Yes. The 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis is a nationally accredited qualification recognised across all Australian states and territories. The certificate issued upon successful completion is accepted by employers and regulatory bodies nationwide.
Do I need prior experience to enrol in a first aid for mental health course?
No prior experience or course completion is required. The 11379NAT course is open to anyone aged 18 or over with a valid USI and basic English skills. It is designed to be accessible to both first-time learners and experienced professionals seeking to formalise their knowledge through nationally accredited mental health training.
How long is the 11379NAT nationally accredited mental health certification valid for?
While there is no mandatory legislative expiry date for the 11379NAT certificate, it is recommended that participants refresh their certified mental health crisis response training every three years to ensure their skills remain current and aligned with workplace training obligations under WHS legislation.
What is the difference between the 11379NAT course and Mental Health First Aid (MHFA)?
The 11379NAT Course in Initial Response to a Mental Health Crisis is a nationally accredited qualification delivered under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), making it a formal, recognised certification. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) is a separate, non-accredited awareness program. The 11379NAT course provides a higher level of formal recognition and focuses specifically on crisis response using evidence-based protocols.
Can my employer pay for my 11379NAT mental health accreditation?
In many cases, yes. As the 11379NAT course directly supports WHS obligations related to psychosocial hazard management, many employers — particularly those in health, education and high-risk industries — will fund or partially subsidise their employees’ nationally accredited mental health training. Speak with your HR or WHS team about professional development funding options available to you.
