The Morrison Government has announced it is providing $3 million to support young Australians in Victoria, ensuring they can access mental health support if and when they need it during this fifth lockdown in the state.
The funding will be matched by the Victorian Government and delivered through headspace, helping meet the critical demand for youth mental health services across the state.
This additional investment in headspace services, complemented by co-funding from the Victorian Government, will boost the capacity of the 32 headspace services across Victoria for six months.
Reportedly, the funding will also ensure Primary Health Networks and headspace National can integrate activities through the National headspace Program for monitoring and evaluation activities.
Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt MP, says the Government is profoundly committed to safeguarding the mental health and wellbeing of young Australians, who have been substantially affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
“This is a tough time for our young Australians, and we want them to know that they are not alone, which is why we’re putting more health professionals on the ground to meet increased demand,” says Minister Hunt.
“It is vital young Victorians can get the mental health support they need, where and when they need it. This is even more so when their lives are upended by Covid-19-related restrictions.”
Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention,
David Coleman MP adds that “extended lockdowns can have significant impacts on the mental health of young Australians and our Government has worked quickly to ensure that additional support is available”.
If the Victorian lockdown is extended beyond the five days, the Commonwealth will provide additional support in consultation with the Victorian Government.
Australians looking for support throughout the Covid-19 pandemic can access the Beyond Blue Coronavirus Wellbeing Support Service anytime via telephone at 1800 512 348 or online at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au.
Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health.
If you are concerned about suicide, living with someone who is considering suicide, or bereaved by suicide, the Suicide Call Back Service is available at 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au.
