To lead federal mental health reform, Monsignor David Cappo who is the Senior South Australian government adviser on social inclusion will later this year step down.

In December, Monsignor Cappo’s chair of the state government's Social Inclusion Board will be given up.

He has been appointed as the chair of Australia's first National Mental Health Commission by the federal government and this has made him take this decision.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard had made an announcement that national reform of mental health services will be overseen by him.

There were several issues that Monsignor Cappo worked on like crime and disability services, homelessness and mental health and this he did during his nine years with the SA Labor government.

For the opportunity given to him, he thanked Premier Mike Rann and said that it was an honour to serve the state.

He said, “Importantly, before I step down, the Social Inclusion Board will deliver a blueprint for major disability reform in South Australia.”

There has been criticism also about his role in the state government from the opposition.