People doing it tough across Gippsland because of drought and dry conditions will have extra mental health support, thanks to an Andrews Labor Government funding boost.
Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley today announced $395,000 to fund innovative mental health and wellbeing programs for the community.
The funding comes as the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System begins public hearings. The landmark Royal Commission will address our broken mental health system and map out a plan of action to drive major change.
The funding boost is part of the Labor Government’s $1.89 million drought package to support the mental health and wellbeing of drought affected farming communities. This is on top of our Drought Relief Package of $46 million.
The initiative will be delivered through a Drought Mental Health and Wellbeing Partnership, which is led by Gippsland Lakes Community Health and includes eight key mental health and community organisations.
Organisations will be working together to improve access to services for people who may not usually seek out, or have easy access to assistance.
The mental health support aims to provide additional approaches to traditional service-based counselling, so farmers who cannot leave the farm, or those who are isolated and unlikely to seek help, are still supported.
The funding for East Gippsland and Wellington further supports Victoria’s mental health sector as the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System continues its important work.
The Government has promised to implement all of the Royal Commission’s recommendations.
The Commission is still accepting online submissions until 5 July at rcvmhs.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
“We know the Gippsland community has had to deal with significant fire and drought conditions in recent times and this funding ensures they get the support they need to look after their mental health.”
“These innovative mental health programs have been designed in consultation with farmers, to help those who have been impacted by drought or dry conditions and who are feeling isolated and vulnerable and unlikely to seek help.”
Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing
“Our community is resilient and innovative but it’s our job to ensure the right mental health support is there for those who need it most and that’s exactly what we’re doing with this initiative.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020