- Pilbara Building Company awarded construction contract for adult mental health facility
- Step Up/Step Down service to provide residential care close to home for country communities
- Cook Government expands mental health services in the Pilbara region
Pilbara Building Company has been awarded the contract for the Karratha Step Up/Step Down facility following an open tender which closed in November 2024.
The Karratha Step Up/Step Down (SUSD) service will provide patients with short-term residential care in a home-like setting close to their family and friends.
The service will provide an integral component of care for adults experiencing a change in their mental health.
Once established, the purpose-built facility will be located close to the town centre and local amenities.
SUSD Karratha will feature six residential units, communal spaces, areas for group activities and facilities for staff.
Residents will receive a range of mental health services such as counselling and therapy for up to 28 days.
Richmond Wellbeing will lead the support service, in partnership with Hope Community Services.
Western Australian Country Health Service will provide clinical support.
The SUSD model of care was designed to bridge the gap between hospital and home by teaching people strategies to manage their wellbeing to avoid a hospital stay.
Additional support will be available to help people re-establish themselves in their home and community by building healthy routines and coping strategies.
Construction of the Karratha facility is expected to begin in the coming months.
As stated by Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"I am pleased to announce Pilbara Building Company as the contractor for the new Karratha Step Up/Step Down service.
"Step Up/Step Down facilities help to bridge the gap between hospital and home, and provide a vital service to patients.
"The Cook Government has worked closely with the City of Karratha, residents and stakeholders on this important project."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"TheKarratha Step Up/Step Down service will provide patients with short-term residential care close to their family and friends, reducing the need to travel to Perth.
"For adults experiencing a change in their mental health, it will provide an important stepping stone in their return home after a period of acute care.
"The Cook Government is committed to boosting mental health services in our region and this facility is a welcome boost."
