The Australian Government is boosting help and support for people with eating disorders with a grant of $9.2 million to the Butterfly National Helpline.
The Butterfly National Helpline is a free digital-first national web, email and telephone counselling, referral and information service. It's for people with or at risk of developing eating disorders and their families, professionals and community members.
The investment will also fund a new single session intervention model which will provide short-term support to reduce distress, and immediate support to those who are waiting for ongoing or longer-term support. The Butterfly National Helpline meets the National Safety and Quality Digital Mental Health Standards.
An estimated 1.1 million Australians, or 4.5% of the population, are currently living with an eating disorder. More than one in ten people experience an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime.
In conjunction with the launch of the Butterfly Foundation 'Cost of Appearance Ideals' Report, the Albanese Labor Government is investing in the Butterfly National Helpline so people with or at risk of eating disorders can access the help they need.
The Butterfly Foundation is the largest eating disorder and body image organisation in Australia. Its work in digital mental health services will reduce barriers such as stigma, geography, wait times and cost.
The services offered can be complementary or used as an alternative to in-person therapies, allowing people to seek support in times of need in between appointments with a clinician or when it is most convenient for them.
The Butterfly Foundation were awarded this competitive grant as part of the Digital Mental Health Program, this builds on the Albanese Government's broader investment announced as part of a $361 million package in the 2024-25 Budget.
This includes a new national early intervention service that anyone can access for free, whenever they need it, and an upgraded nationwide network of 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres to offer free, walk-in access to mental health care.
Together, these services will reduce system fragmentation and address service gaps. The Government is expanding and improving Australians' access to the mental health care they need, at a time and place which suits them.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"This funding will boost support for the Butterfly National Helpline and support new single session model of care.
"The Butterfly National Helpline means there are now more ways for people with an eating disorder to get the professional and compassionate care they need in a way that meets their personal needs and preferences.
"The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Medicare by investing in better mental health services, including 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres offering free, walk-in mental health support and care for everyone."
