Young people in Melbourne's north-west will have better access to free mental health care and support with a new headspace service to open in Moonee Valley.
The Albanese Labor Government is investing $6.2 million over 4 years from 2025-26 to establish the service, which is expected to open in 2026-27.
Youth mental health service headspace is the primary national platform for young people aged 12-25 years old who are experiencing, or at risk of, mild to moderate mental illness.
The headspace in Moonee Valley will offer free wraparound support to young people living across Melbourne's north-west, including mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug services, and work and study support.
The new headspace will be funded by the Albanese Labor Government and commissioned by the North Western Primary Health Network.
The Government is investing more than $300 million in the headspace program this financial year to improve services, reduce waiting times and expand the network.
There are now 167 headspace services operating nationally, with a commitment to grow the network to 173 by 2025-26.
For young people who prefer online or phone support, headspace provides free, telephone and web-based services. Further information is available online at: www.headspace.org.au or by phoning 1800 650 890.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the NDIS and Government Services the Hon Bill Shorten MP, Member for Maribyrnong:
"headspace Moonee Valley will fill a critical gap in services available locally and offer early intervention to prevent and reduce the impact of mental ill health on young people across the region."
"This will bring accessible mental health to young people across the electorate and beyond.
"I have been a strong supporter of the push to have a headspace centre in this area and I've been working closely with my government colleagues to get this done."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"As part of our plan to strengthen Medicare, the Albanese Labor Government is investing in mental health services and continuing to expand the headspace network.
"We are committed to ensuring young people can access the support they need early, close to home, and for free.
"The new Moonee Valley headspace will mean young people in North-West Melbourne have better access to mental health support and care."
