Young people in Gawler, South Australia, and the surrounding district will in future have access to free, holistic mental health care provided by a new headspace centre.
Gawler has been chosen by the Australian Government as the location for a new centre as it continues to expand the headspace network.
headspace is the primary national platform for young people aged 12 to 25 years old who are experiencing, or at risk of, mild to moderate mental illness.
headspace services provide care in four key areas - mental health, related physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug support, and vocational services.
In 2023-24, the Government is investing more than $290 million in the headspace program.
There are currently 160 headspace services operating nationally, 87 of which are located in regional Australia. The Australian Government has committed to grow the network to 173 services by 2025-26, including headspace Gawler.
The Country South Australia Primary Health Network will receive funding in 2024-25 to establish the Gawler headspace centre. Establishment is expected to take 12 to 18 months, with the centre likely to open in 2025.
For those young people who prefer online or phone support, eheadspace is available online at www.headspace.org.au or by phoning 1800 650 890.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister, Emma McBride:
"There is an increased need for mental health support for young people with more than 40% of people 16-24 years old experiencing mental ill health.
"The Albanese Government is meeting this demand by investing in support services like headspace which offer wrap around mental and social support.
"We're expanding the headspace network so that young people can access the support they need, closer to home."
Quotes attributable to Matt Burnell MP:
"Young people in Gawler and across the electorate need - and deserve - better access to mental health support.
"A local headspace is good news for those who need support, for their families and the whole community."
