Wednesday, 11 September 2024

Mental health services

Chris COUZENS (Geelong) (10:30): I am proud of the work that we are doing on mental health support in our communities, but I want to start by acknowledging that yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day. It is observed with the intention of raising awareness and empowering people to take action to prevent suicide. We can all play a role in suicide prevention, and we know that the LGBTIQ+ and Aboriginal communities are more vulnerable. Thursday is R U OK? Day. It empowers and inspires all of us to have regular, meaningful conversations to connect with and support anyone who might be going through a difficult time. I also note the Minister for Mental Health launched the Victorian Suicide Prevention and Response Strategy yesterday. Of course anyone needing support can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

We have been implementing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, and in Geelong people now have access to a range of comprehensive mental health services under one roof after the official opening of the Central Geelong mental health and wellbeing hub last week thanks to the Allan government. The new hub, in the heart of Geelong’s CBD, will see Barwon Health deliver wraparound treatment, care and support for local consumers, carers and their families, including mental health and alcohol and other drug treatment services. The service is free and does not require a GP referral or a Medicare card – anyone can walk in and get the support they need. The hub provides mental health care through specialist integrated multidisciplinary teams.