Boost to mental health services in the South Burnett

May 3, 2022

Maranoa MP David Littleproud was in Kingaroy today to announce a $3.4 million injection for easier access to mental health services with the Coalition Federal Government announcing a new Head to Health adult mental health satellite service in the South Burnett.

“The Darling Downs Head to Health satellite service will be commissioned by the Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN, which will receive a total of $3.4 million over four years to establish and operate the satellite,” Mr Littleproud said.

“The Liberal-National Government continues to make the mental health and wellbeing of all Australians a national priority.

“Head to Health satellite services, like the one being established here in the South Burnett are designed to provide a welcoming, low stigma, ‘no wrong door’, entry point for adults to access mental health information, services and supports.

“I encourage people who are worried about their own or a loved one’s mental health to visit this centre – you don’t have to go it alone.

“The services are free, and referrals can also be made for more intensive mental health care or social supports if needed.

“These services will provide that much needed support, as well as creating a safe space for Australians experiencing high levels of distress or who are at heightened risk of suicide.”

The satellite will be integrated within the primary care setting to offer support to adults with moderate to severe levels of mental illness over the short to medium term.

This Maranoa Head to Health satellite service is part of a network of community-based mental health services being established around Australia as part of the Government’s $3 billion National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan to lead landmark reform of the mental health system.

The Coalition Federal Government continues to make mental health a national priority, investing a record $3 billion in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 Budgets for the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Plan to lead landmark reform of the mental health system.

This brings the Health portfolio expenditure in mental health and suicide prevention services and supports in 2022–23 to a record high of $6.8 billion.

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 (www.headtohealth.gov.au).

Australians looking for support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic can access the Beyond Blue Coronavirus Wellbeing Support Service any time via telephone at 1800 512 348 or online at coronavirus.beyondblue.org.au