The Liberal National Government is investing $2.5 million to strengthen research and treatment programs at the Sunshine Coast Mind and Neuroscience Thompson Institute.
Government funding will support the continuation of ground-breaking research and treatment in youth mental health, suicide prevention, dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder for a further 12 months.
The announcement builds on the $5 million delivered as part of the 2017 Budget, which supported the Thompson Institute’s first two years of operation.
Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt said the latest announcement will provide the Thompson Institute time to not only further their research but assist them in moving to full financial independence.
“Since its opening in 2017 the Thompson Institute has built an international reputation as a world-class hub for mental health research, teaching and clinical services,” Minister Hunt said.
Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace said that this funding was a further indication of the Government’s commitment to mental health treatment and research on the Sunshine Coast.
“Thanks to Minister Hunt and the Coalition Government’s consistent support, the Sunshine Coast is now the home of Australia’s first specialist residential treatment facility for eating disorders in EndED Butterfly House, a $3.2 million eating disorders treatment pilot, and a world-class mental health research facility in the Thompson Institute.” Mr Wallace said.
“I advocated strongly for Federal support for the Thompson Institute in 2017, and over the past two years our community has seen the tangible benefits of their innovative clinical services, research and education work.”
“I am delighted that people on the Sunshine Coast, and all over Australia, will be able to benefit from this facility into the future,” Mr Wallace said.
The Thompson Institute’s integration of clinical service, advocacy, research and education facilitates fast and efficient translation of research breakthroughs into clinical treatments.
The Institute’s work delivers better outcomes for people living with mental health disorders, and helps reduce the economic and community impact of mental health issues.
It is estimated that one in five young Australians aged 16 to 24 experience mental illness in any given year.
Three quarters of all mental illness manifests in people under the age of 25 so intervention early in life and at an early stage of illness can reduce the duration and impact of mental illness.
The Liberal National Government is prioritising better mental health for all Australians with a record $4.7 billion expected to be spent on mental health this financial year alone.
The Government’s strong economic management ensures the continued record investment of funding into vital health initiatives including mental health, life-saving medicines, Medicare and hospitals.