People across the Blacktown, Campbeltown, Broken Hill and Central Darling regions of New South Wales will soon have free, walk-in mental health support and care with the opening of four new Medicare Mental Health Centres.
The Medicare Mental Health Centres will provide on-the-spot support for people in distress and ongoing care for more complex mental health needs.
Staffed by multidisciplinary care teams, including social workers, nurses, and peer support workers, they will provide wraparound support and care across extended hours.
To boost access to specialist care, the Albanese Government is investing an additional $29.9 million to provide access to psychologists and psychiatrists on call for every centre.
To respond to growing need, the government is rolling out 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres across the country, including 22 in New South Wales.
The Federal Albanese Government is providing a total of $17.1 million to open the four new centres. The NSW Minns Government will contribute $1.1 million towards the Blacktown centre and $4.2 million towards the Broken Hill and the Central Darling centres.
The services are expected to open from the middle of 2025. Exact locations will be determined following community consultation and co-design.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"The Albanese Government is working to make sure people can get the mental health support and care they need, when they need it, close to home.
"The rollout of 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres, offering free, walk-in mental health support and care, is part of our plan to strengthen Medicare."
Quotes attributable to Minister Bowen, Member for McMahon:
"This is a game-changer for those in need of urgent and ongoing mental health care, with the Albanese Government and the NSW government coming together to address the mental health needs of our communities.
"With the opening of these new centres, including in Blacktown we are not only expanding access to mental health services but also demonstrating our commitment to the mental health and happiness of all Australians.
"By providing comprehensive care and support, these centres will ensure that every person, regardless of their background or income, can access the help they need."
Quotes attributable to Minister Rowland, Member for Greenway:
"The Albanese Government is committed to supporting locals in North West Sydney to access essential mental health services in the very communities where they live and work.
This new Medicare Mental Health Centre is an important addition to Greenway - ensuring free support is there when people need it - without a long wait and without judgement."
Quotes attributable to Dr Freelander, Member for Macarthur:
"The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Campbelltown will be a very welcome addition to the health care services available in my community.
"Getting professional support will help them directly but the benefits will flow through to families, workplaces and the whole community."
Quotes attributable to New South Wales Minister Jackson:
"The rollout of 22 Medicare Mental Health Centres across New South Wales will significantly enhance access to vital mental health support for those who need it most.
"We are dedicated to removing any barriers that prevent people from accessing mental health services. These free, walk-in services require no appointments or referrals, ensuring help is readily available when it's needed."
