Media Release - Labor to establish headspace centres in Swan and Perth
LABOR TO ESTABLISH HEADSPACE CENTRES IN SWAN AND PERTH
A Shorten Labor Government will create two new full headspace centres in Swan and Perth to deliver early intervention mental health services for those aged 12 to 25 years.
Labor knows that the level of mental ill health amongst young people across the eastern Perth region is of persistent and increasing concern.
“Many school principals have raised with me the need for more youth mental health services in Perth,” said Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman.
“Labor’s investment in Perth mental health services will be accessible to thousands of young people across our community and the wider metropolitan area.
“A dedicated headspace centre in Perth will be a critical piece in our health network.”
Labor acknowledges, values and respects the amazing and tireless work undertaken by youth mental health professionals. However, we know that more early intervention services are needed.
When a young person is experiencing mental ill health and they are attempting to seek help, there is a small window to intervene and help them and their loved ones. For many young people, these services are not easily accessible.
“Today’s announcement will make a real difference to our community. Having a headspace centre in Swan will guarantee that young people in our community will have access to vital frontline services and support,” said Labor candidate for Swan Hannah Beazley.
By creating dedicated headspace centres in Swan and Perth, Labor will help ensure that when young people put their hand up, say they are not well and they need help, services are available and accessible.
The headspace centres in Swan and Perth will also promote young peoples’ wellbeing across mental health, physical health, work and study support, and alcohol and other drug services.
Our announcement builds on Labor’s strong history of supporting and expanding headspace, including our recent announcements to open new headspace centres across the country.
When Labor was in Government, we increased the number of headspace sites by investing almost $200 million to bring the total number of headspace centres to 90. Labor also expanded the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre services that are delivered by headspace.
Labor continues to take action on youth mental health because it is the right thing to do – for our young people, their families and the broader community.
This election is a choice between Labor’s plan for better healthcare services, hospitals and schools versus bigger tax loopholes for the top end of town under the Liberals.
After six years of Liberal cuts and chaos, our united Labor team is ready.
* For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Other services include Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978
WEDNESDAY, 17 APRIL 2019
Authorised by Noah Carroll, ALP, Canberra.