The Morrison Government is providing $800,000 in urgent mental health support to the community of Devonport to assist people affected by the jumping castle tragedy, including families, children and first responders.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the package would fund free trauma and distress counselling sessions for those affected in the community, including first responders, and would also include a range of community recovery initiatives.
"Australia grieves with all those affected by this terrible tragedy, and we want to do anything we can to help all those affected," the Prime Minister said.
"This package of support will ensure that mental health services are available to family, friends, community members and emergency service personnel who have been affected.
"Importantly, it will be provided over an 18-month period because we know support won't just be needed in the next few weeks, it'll be needed for many months, to try to begin that process of healing."
Health Minister Greg Hunt said the funding would cover mental health supports for the whole community but would also provide targeted support for those first responders who witnessed or attended the event.
"I thank our emergency services personnel who have been an incredible support to the whole community during this tragedy. I want you to know that our Government understands that this will have an impact on families and the community, and we are committed to ensuring help is available," Minister Hunt said.
"I urge people to reach out, get the support they need and check in on loved ones."
Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention David Coleman said the mental health package would also include a community grants program, support for the local headspace to ensure young people impacted have appropriate trauma-informed care, and training for first responder organisations and the broader community in trauma informed care and psychological first aid.
"It is important the support provided by the Government is comprehensive and will have the biggest reach into the community at this difficult time. This is an unimaginable tragedy and we will ensure this support is available for the next few years as we know this will have a long-term impact," Minister Coleman said.
These new services will be commissioned by the Tasmanian Primary Health Network, who is working in the Devonport community to ensure there are supports in place for those who need them.
It is important in times like this, and at all times, that people accept help when they are severely distressed. Anyone experiencing distress can also 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.
If you are concerned about suicide, living with someone who is considering suicide, or bereaved by suicide, the Suicide Call Back Service is available at 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au
The Australian Government continues to make mental health and wellbeing a priority. Our Government provided a historic $2.3 billion in the 2020-21 Budget to deliver significant reform of the mental health system and ensure that all Australians have access to high quality, person-centred care as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
