Dubbo headspace will expand its reach into the community thanks to a boost in funding from the federal government.
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Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said mental health care for young Australians would benefit from a $51.8 million funding boost.
“The federal government’s extra investment in the national network of headspace centres and the digital portal, eheadspace, will benefit young people in my electorate,” he said.
Dubbo headspace centre manager Marijka Brennan said any funding boost would be happily received.
“I would hope any extra money for us would expand our reach and be beneficial for our service,” she said.
“We are not sure how much money is coming our way but we could increase the groups we offer, we could shorten our wait lists and the extra funding should help us provide easier access to our service for young people in the community.
“It is also good to note that extra funding is going towards eheadspace, we are looking forward to making some positive impact with the money that is awarded to us.”
Mr Coulton said headspace provides an excellent service for people aged 12-25 years in his electorate.
“Headspace is as a single entry point to friendly primary care and support for physical and mental well-being,” he said.
“It’s important young people know they are not alone and that quality front-line support is available, which includes early intervention services.
“One in four young Australians experience mental illness in any given year, and headspace continues to provide an important service to those who are suffering.”
Health Minister Greg Hunt said the government understands the huge mental health challenge facing many Australians.
Headspace has increased the number of services it delivers to around 382,000 people in 2017/18. Last year, approximately 33,800 young people accessed eheadspace.