Former prime minister has been appointed to the board of national depression and anxiety initiative beyondblue. Picture Mike Batterham Source: News Corp Australia

The organisation’s long-serving chairman, Jeff Kennett, said he would be honoured to serve alongside the former Labor prime minister.

“Julia Gillard will not only bring a great deal of experience to our board, but importantly the passion for the sector that drove her in government to establish the National Disability (Insurance) Scheme,” the former Victorian Liberal premier said on Thursday.

“For many of those who suffer disability, and their carers, depression can be an ever present condition.”

Ms Gillard said she was delighted to make a contribution in an area she felt passionate about.

“As the daughter of a psychiatric nurse, I have always understood the need to talk openly about mental health and respond to those in need,” she said.

Health Minister Peter Dutton congratulated Ms Gillard on her appointment, noting her “lengthy record of public service to the country and will bring her considerable experience to the organisation”.

“The Commonwealth has provided around $30 million in the current financial year to support the work of beyondblue,” he said.

”Improving mental health services for Australians who experience mental ill health has the support of all sides of politics.”

Mr Kennett said much of beyondblue’s success had been driven by the bipartisan support it received from politicians.

“Ms Gillard’s appointment only reinforces that bipartisanship,” he said.

Ms Gillard will attend her first beyondblue board meeting in February.

Additional reporting: AAP