A Shorten Labor Government will create a new headspace centre in Rankin 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 in Rankin and Forde is of persistent and increasing concern.
A new headspace in Rankin will not only complement the outstanding work of staff at headspace Meadowbrook, but will make mental health services more accessible for more young people in the local community.
While local mental health professionals do amazing and tireless work, including at headspace Meadowbrook, more early intervention services are required.
When a young person is experiencing mental ill health and is 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.
By creating a dedicated headspace centre in Rankin, 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.
headspace promotes 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 four new headspaces in Burnie, Monash, Ocean Grove and Emerald.
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.
And now, 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.
* 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