People in Central Queensland now have access to free, walk-in mental health support and care with the opening of a Medicare Mental Health Centre in Rockhampton.
Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, returned to Rockhampton to officially open the new service today.
Located 3/47 William Street, Rockhampton, the new centre will provide on-the-spot support for people in distress and ongoing care for more complex mental health needs.
Staffed by multidisciplinary care team, including qualified mental health professionals, social workers, nurses, and peer support workers, the centres will provide wrap around support and care across extended hours.
The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Medicare by opening 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres across Australia, including 19 in Queensland.
There are currently 33 Medicare Mental Health Centre open across Australia including 7 in Queensland located in Townsville, Kingaroy, Ipswich, Logan, Redlands Gladstone and Rockhampton.
To boost access to specialist care, the government is investing an additional $29.9 million to provide access to psychologists and psychiatrists through every centre.
The Albanese Labor Government is investing $3.5 million for the establishment and operation of the Rockhampton Medicare Mental Health Centre.
The new centre is commissioned by Country to Coast QLD Primary Health Network and operated by Wellways in partnership with Clarity Health Care.
People can also make a free call to 1800 595 212 and be connected to a trained professional for advice, information or referral into the most appropriate local mental health service to meet their individual needs.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Medicare by investing in more mental health services.
"Central Queenslanders can now walk in and access free mental health care at the Rockhampton and Gladstone Medicare Mental Health Centres.
"We want every Australian, no matter their postcode, to have access to high quality mental health care and support.
Quotes attributable to Senator Green:
"These centres are a real boost for the people of Rockhampton, Gladstone, and the wider Central Queensland community.
"It offers immediate help and follow-up for people who are in distress; support for people with mental health concerns; and for carers and families of people experiencing mental health distress.
"It can also connect people with other services to support them in the future, from health to mental health, and social supports like housing and employment."
