New Headspace Sites for Victoria
More young people with mental illness, or at risk of mental illness, across Victoria, will be able to get the care and support that they need from four new headspace sites in Dandenong, Ringwood/Knox, Shepparton and Ballarat.
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24 October 2011
More young people with mental illness, or at risk of mental illness, across Victoria, will be able to get the care and support that they need from four new headspace sites in Dandenong, Ringwood/Knox, Shepparton and Ballarat, as announced by the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth today.
The Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler, today joined local youth at the site of the upcoming Collingwood headspace Centre to welcome the announcement.
As part of the Gillard Labor Government’s record independent in the 2011-12 Budget $197 million is being investing to more than double the number of headspace sites to 90. This brings the Government’s total investment in headspace services to $359 million.
“Mental health is the single biggest health issue facing young Australians. Every day thousands of young Australians face mental health challenges that can impact their lives for months, years and lifetimes,” Mr Butler said.
“Without getting the help they need, many young people can become isolated from family and friends when support is most needed.
“It’s critical that young people have access to youth specific services that are designed for them. We know that young people often don’t feel comfortable visiting mum and dad’s GP.
“Young people want youth friendly services – where they can chat about what’s going on in their life and seek help and advice if they’re feeling anxious, worried or going through a tough time.
“The four new sites will improve access for young people aged between 12 and 25 to mental health care, drug and alcohol services and vocational support.”
The new sites have been chosen in conjunction with headspace, and in consultation with the Victorian Government on the basis of community need. The Dandenong site will service areas including the city of Casey, the city of Greater Dandenong and parts of the city of Cardinia.
Today's announcement builds on the new 24 hour eheadspace service which from today will provide free, confidential and anonymous counselling services over the phone or online, to young people between the ages of 12 and 25 years with, or at risk of developing, a mild to moderate mental illness.
The Gillard Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to improve services for people living with mental illness, their carers and their families. Providing better care and support for young Australians is front and centre of our commitment to do better for people living with a mental illness.
For more information, please contact the Minister's Office on (02) 6277 7280
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