The Liberal National Government will invest $4 million to improve vital health care and youth mental health services for Bellarine communities.
This funding will assist the Bellarine Community Health to build the Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub, and provide new headspace services.
Minister for Health, Greg Hunt said the Government is committed to improving local health access, and to building a world class health system Australia wide.
“This announcement ensures the region will gain greater access to primary and secondary health, coupled with specialist outreach services and a headspace facility,” Minister Hunt said.
“By delivering our plan for a strong economy we can make investments in projects like the Ocean Grove Health and Wellbeing Hub that Victorians want and need.”
“The region has been calling for better services, and through strong representation by the Member for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson the needs will be met.”
Headspace Ocean Grove will complement headspace Drysdale, and will operate outreach services to local communities including:
- Leopold
- Drysdale
- Clifton Springs
- Portarlington
- Indented Head
- Barwon Heads
- St Leonards
- Point Lonsdale
- Queenscliff
Federal Member for Corangamite, Sarah Henderson, said she has been lobbying hard for funding to support a new headspace facility for the Bellarine, located centrally in Ocean Grove.
“It was identified that a headspace facility was required with the population growth across the Bellarine Peninsula,” Ms Henderson said.
“Suicide is the leading cause of death of young people in Australia, accounting for one-third of all deaths.”
“With recent deaths due to suicide in the Corangamite electorate, it is so important for youth, their families and friends, to have access to mental health care support services.”
Bellarine Community Health will provide $2 million to the $6 million project. Usual contracting arrangements by the Western Victoria Primary Healthcare Network will be undertaken.
The Government’s strong economic management ensures the continued record investment into vital health initiatives including mental health, life-saving medicines, Medicare and hospitals.