North West Tasmanian residents now have access to free, walk-in mental health support and care with the opening of the new Medicare Mental Health Centre in Devonport.
The Medicare Mental Health Centre was officially opened today by Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, and Anne Urquhart MP, Member for Braddon.
Located at 11-17 Stewart Street, Devonport, the centre offers free mental health support and care for people in distress, without the need for an appointment, referral or mental health treatment plan.
Staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including mental health clinicians and peer workers, care is tailored to the needs of each person with wraparound support for people with more ongoing needs.
The Albanese Labor Government is establishing a national network of 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres, including 5 in Tasmania.
There are 49 Medicare Mental Health Centres open and supporting communities across the country, including 2 in Tasmania.
Across Tasmania, Medicare Mental Health Centres are open in Launceston and Devonport. Further centres are being established in Burnie, Glenorchy and Brighton.
The Albanese Labor Government has delivered $4.5 million in funding for the establishment and running of the Devonport Medicare Mental Health Centre.
The centre is commissioned by Tasmanian Primary Health Network and operated by Stride Mental Health.
People seeking information or support can be connected with Medicare Mental Health by calling 1800 595 212 or visiting www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
“The Albanese Labor Government is putting mental health at the heart of Medicare and quality care in the centre of communities.
“This new Devonport Medicare Mental Health Centre offers locals a safe and welcoming place to access mental health care, without an appointment or referral.
“North West Tasmanians now have access to free mental health support on their doorstep in Devonport, and at the soon to open Burnie Medicare Mental Health Centre.”
Quotes attributable to Anne Urquhart, Member for Braddon:
“This new Medicare Mental Health Centre in Devonport is a game-changer for the Braddon community.
“It means that anyone experiencing mental distress can walk in and get the support they need—without cost, without a referral, and without delay.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that’s delivering real, accessible mental health care for Tasmanians”