Work will soon begin on a Head to Health centre to provide free mental health care and support for residents of the Sunshine Coast.
The new service will complement a network of Head to Health services currently being established across Queensland.
Head to Health services provide a safe and welcoming place for adults to access mental health information, services and support delivered by multidisciplinary care teams over extended hours, without needing a prior appointment or paying a fee.
Services include immediate support and follow-up for people presenting in crisis, as well as short to medium term care for people with moderate to severe mental health needs.
Together the Australian and Queensland Governments will provide $14.4 million over four years to Central Queensland, Wide Bay, Sunshine Coast Primary Health Network (Country to Coast Qld PHN) to commission the Sunshine Coast Head to Health.
All Australians can also make a free call to Head to Health on 1800 595 212 to talk to a trained professional and connect with the support that best meets their needs. Read more information about Head to Health.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister, Emma McBride:
“All Australians deserve access to quality and affordable mental health care and support.
“We are expanding Head to Health services to make sure every Queenslander gets the mental health support they need.
“This investment will provide greater support and care for people who live on the Sunshine Coast, making mental health services accessible for those who need it.”
Quotes attributable to Minister, Shannon Fentiman:
“We know that community-based support services and programs are critical to assisting individuals to meet their treatment and recovery goals.
“Expanding crisis care services as an alternative to emergency departments will ensure that mental health services are accessible closer to home, during and after crisis.
“Head to Health will play a significant role in assisting Sunshine Coast residents in distress receive the right care from within their local community.
“The Palaszczuk Government is pleased to be partnering with the Commonwealth, to make it easier for people on the Sunshine Coast to access mental health and wellbeing, alcohol and other drugs support closer to home.”