New Headspace Sites For Queensland
More young Queenslanders will get the care and support they need to overcome mental illness with three new headspace sites to be rolled out in Queensland. The centres will be at Mackay, Ipswich and Sunshine Coast.
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Joint Release
The Hon Wayne Swan MP
Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer
The Hon Mark Butler MP
Minister for Mental Health and Ageing
Minister Assisting the Prime Minister on Mental Health Reform
24 October 2011 More young Queenslanders will get the care and support they need to overcome mental illness with three new headspace sites to be rolled out in Queensland.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Treasurer, Wayne Swan and Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler today welcomed the announcement of the three new centres in Mackay, Ipswich and Sunshine Coast.
As part of the Gillard Labor Government’s 2011-12 Budget, $197 million is being invested to more than double the number of headspace sites to 90. This brings the Government’s total investment in headspace services to $359 million.
“We know that young people have difficulty recognising when they have a mental health problem. If left untreated, mental illness can interrupt schooling and work, and lead to disengagement from family and friends.’’
Mr Butler said early intervention was critical to prevent issues persisting for the rest of a young person's life.
“Mental health is a major health issue for young Australians. Around Australia, every fourth young person will experience mental health disorders, in any year.
"It takes strength and courage to ask for help - these new headspace sites will give young people the help they need to get through tough times and reach their full potential,’’ Mr Butler said.
"The three 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 Queensland Government on the basis of community need.”
Once fully established, each centre will help on average between 1,000 and 3,000 young people each year.
Today's announcement builds on the new 24 hour e-headspace service which provides 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.
Mental health is a priority for this Government and we are delivering on our commitment to improve services for Australians living with a mental illness, their families and their carers.
For more information, please contact the Minister's Office on (02) 6277 7280
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