People across Western Australia’s Wheatbelt region now have access to free, walk-in mental health support and care with the opening of the Medicare Mental Health Centre in Northam.
Located at 133 Fitzgerald Street, the new centre will provide on-the-spot support for people in distress and ongoing care for more complex mental health needs.
Staffed by a multidisciplinary care team, including social workers, nurses, and peer support workers, it will provide wrap around support and care across extended hours.
Emma McBride, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, officially opened the new centre in Northam.
To respond to growing need, the Australian Government is rolling out 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres across the country, including 5 in Western Australia.
There are 26 Medicare Mental Health Centres open across Australia. Northam is the final centre to open in Western Australia joining services in Armadale, Gosnells, Midland and Mirrabooka.
To boost access to specialist care, the government is investing an additional $29.9 million to provide access to psychologists and psychiatrists on call for every centre.
Anyone who would prefer online support can call 1800 595 212 to talk to an experienced professional or receive a referral to a service that meets their needs.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
“We want every Australian, no matter where they live, to have access to quality mental health care.
“The new Northam Medicare Mental Health Centre will mean locals across Western Australia’s Wheatbelt can access support, closer to home.
“The roll out of 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres, offering free, walk-in mental health support and care, is part of our plan to strengthen Medicare."
Quotes attributable to Minister Sanderson:
“The WA State Government welcomes the Albanese Government’s commitment to mental health – it is a commitment we share.
“The Cook Government recognises the importance of choice for healthcare consumers and the Northam Medicare Mental Health Centre will help bolster local community treatment options.
“Consumers will be able to walk in and have access to mental health nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and peer support workers.”