The Australian Government is making it easier for Australians to access mental health care, with Medicare Mental Health Centres now delivering more than 130,000 free, walk in appointments in Queensland.
Every one of these appointments represents a Queenslander getting support without worrying about out-of-pocket costs, referrals or lengthy wait times.
This milestone comes as the Australian Government continues to strengthen Medicare and expand access to free mental health care across Queensland, with a further eight new or upgraded Medicare Mental Health Centres being delivered.
Once complete, Queensland’s network will grow from 17 to 21 Medicare Mental Health Centres.
In Brisbane, the Inner North Medicare Mental Health Centre has already provided more than 10,000 free appointments since opening in August 2025, highlighting the strong demand for accessible mental health care.
Nationally, Medicare Mental Health Centres have now delivered more than 570,000 free, walk in appointments.
To make sure even more Australians can access free mental health care, the Australian Government is investing an additional $267.3 million to deliver 32 new or upgraded Medicare Mental Health Centres, expanding the national network to 92 centres.
Centres are staffed by multidisciplinary teams including psychologists, counsellors, social workers, mental health nurses and peer workers.
For people would rather access support remotely, the Australian Government has launched Australia’s first free, fully digital mental service – Medicare Mental Health Check In.
For further information about Check In or Medicare Mental Health Centres, visit the Medicare Mental Health website or call 1800 595 212.
Quotes attributed to Assistant Minister McBride:
“More than 130,000 free appointments delivered in Queensland shows just how important Medicare Mental Health Centres have become for local communities.
“Every appointment represents someone getting support without worrying about cost, referrals or other barriers that can stand in the way of care.
“As we expand the network with four new centres and upgrades to four existing services, even more Queenslanders will be able to access free mental health support when and where they need it.”
Quotes attributed to Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm:
“The Inner North Medicare Mental Health Centre is providing vital services to our local community, and the numbers show just how valued it truly is.
“Across Queensland, the Australian Government is rolling out more free mental health care services, ensuring Queenslanders can get support they need, no matter the cost.
“These services are available in our regional centres like Gladstone, Rockhampton, Townsville and Mount Isa, with more planned across the state.”
Quotes attributed to Member for Brisbane Madonna Jarret:
"Many people in Brisbane, especially young people, need access to mental health care. Cost should never be a barrier for them, which is why the free walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centre in Lutwyche that I pushed so hard for, is so important to our community.
"Mental health can be impacted by a wide range of life pressures, from financial stress and difficult living situations to relationship breakdowns and other personal challenges. I encourage anyone who is struggling to visit the centre and have a chat. Nothing is too big or too small for the wonderful professionals who are there to help you.
"The proof is in the pudding. The centre is working. It’s helping thousands of people get on top of their mental health challenges.”