A lack of labour is putting mounting pressure on mental health and addiction services.

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission has reviewed the progress of the Access and Choice programme, three years into its roll-out.

The report finds capacity has improved in under-supported areas, but, it also shows nearly 800 more full time staff are needed by the end of June 2024.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission Chair Hayden Wano told Mike Hosking there needs to be a focus on labour meeting the demand.

He says they're going to need a focused workforce plan with sustained leadership from the Government and the system itself.

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