UNSW Launches PsychosocialTech Spinout to Address Growing Mental Health Needs

Researchers at UNSW, in partnership with industry, have launched PsychoSocialTech Pty Ltd, a spinout company commercialising over five years of research and development in AI-enabled psychosocial support.

Many Australians—across ageing, disability and culturally diverse communities—experience unmet psychosocial needs due to limited access to consistent social and emotional support. These gaps contribute to loneliness, anxiety and stress, particularly for people with physical or mental barriers to care.

PsychosocialTech’s AI companions provide scalable, on‑demand psychosocial support that complements existing services. The solution is tailored to community and industry needs, supporting both clients and care staff. The platform operates under a B2B SaaS model, with costs potentially claimable through relevant government programs*.
The technology is designed for safe and effective use across specific populations, including:

• older people living independently or in care
• people living with dementia
• culturally and linguistically diverse communities, including Chinese Australians

In Australia, demand for community-based mental health and loneliness support continues to exceed service capacity, particularly in regional and rural areas. Existing AI chatbots are limited in their ability to provide reliable, proactive and culturally responsive support.

PsychosocialTech partners with care providers—including aged care, disability and mental health services—as well as community organisations and government agencies, to deliver accessible 24/7 psychosocial support at scale.
*Eligibility and funding arrangements vary by jurisdiction.