Young people living in Colac, Victoria can now access more support for their mental health and wellbeing, with a new headspace centre officially opening today.
Located in Hart Street, headspace Colac offers free support to young people aged 12-25 years who are experiencing, or at risk of, mental ill-health.
It will also assist with general physical health, alcohol and other drugs, employment, and social support.
The Australian Government provided funding to Western Victoria Primary Health Network to establish the new headspace service, which is being operated by Barwon Health.
According to the latest National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2020–21, people aged 16-24 years had the highest rate of mental ill-health of any age group.
The Albanese Government is committed to improving mental health services and outcomes for all Australians, and we are proud to invest in trusted providers like headspace.
For young people unable to attend a headspace, free telephone and web support is available at www.headspace.org.au or by phone 1800 650 890.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister, Emma McBride:
“The Australian Government is determined to improve mental health services and supports for young people, including young First Nations people, so they can get quality care, close to home when they need it.”
“There are now 153 headspace centres nationally, including 83 in regional Australia, giving young people a safe place to go to talk about their mental health.”
Quotes attributable to Libby Coker MP:
“The past few years have been tough on all Australians, particularly young Australians so it’s encouraging to see a trusted mental health provider like headspace opening up in Colac.”
“I encourage young people in Colac and the surrounding region to reach out to headspace as early as possible if they feel their mental health is at risk.”