A LOCAL mental health support service has received a further boost thanks to the Liberal National Government, Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Riverina MP Michael McCormack announced today.
Sunflower House Wagga Wagga has been given an additional 12 months of funding worth $275,000 through the Federal Government’s Community Health and Hospital Program.
It comes as the Federal Government continues to ensure there are no gaps in support for clients of Commonwealth community mental health programs as the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is rolled out.
Minister Hunt said Sunflower House would use the funding to provide one-on-one support for people who are not eligible for the NDIS.
“This organisation, since November 2007, has been providing a space to meet with other people who also have lived experience with mental health,” Minister Hunt said.
“The Federal Government is providing $275,000 in funding to Sunflower House so it can have peace of mind for the next year to find their feet as the NDIS continues to be rolled out.”
Member for Riverina and Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack welcomed the announcement.
“I have fought hard to secure $275,000 for Sunflower House which has been doing a power of good for the Wagga Wagga community for more than a decade,” Mr McCormack said.
“This funding will help support those with mental health in the local community and can only be provided through the strong economic management which only the Liberal and Nationals’ Government can provide.
“This is fantastic news for Sunflower House and for those who use its service.”
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.