Residents of the Riverina region will soon benefit from free, walk-in mental health support with the opening of new Medicare Mental Health Centres in Wagga Wagga and Young later this year.
Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, announced the establishment of the two centres today. These facilities will provide immediate care and support without the need for an appointment or referral, ensuring accessibility for all.
“The centres will offer a safe and welcoming place to get on-the-spot care and support,” stated McBride. “People in the Riverina deserve mental health care and support closer to home, and we’re working with the NSW Government to provide quality services to meet the growing demand.”
The centres, part of the existing Head to Health network, are backed by a $29.9 million investment from the Albanese Government to enhance their capacity. This funding will ensure that psychologists and psychiatrists are available on call, providing comprehensive support to those in need.
The initiative is part of a broader rollout of 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres across Australia, including 22 in New South Wales. The Riverina centres are jointly funded by the Australian Government and the New South Wales Government under a mental health bilateral agreement.
An interim service has already been launched in Wagga Wagga, co-located with Mission Australia, with the permanent site at 235-241 Baylis Street set to open later this year. The Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network has been allocated over $9.7 million to commission the two centres, which will be operated by Grand Pacific Health.
Senator Deborah O’Neill emphasized the importance of these centres for regional communities. “Access to mental health care and support can be difficult in regional and remote communities like the Riverina. These Medicare Mental Health Centres provide a gateway to accessing support during the most difficult times.”
NSW Minister Rose Jackson also highlighted the significance of this initiative. “Mental health is a right, and we want those needing support across NSW to be treated in non-restrictive care that is safe. This new walk-in centre will provide a range of supports and services to those in need.”
The announcement underscores the Albanese Government’s commitment to making mental health care more accessible and affordable for all Australians, particularly those in regional areas.
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