- Published:
- Sunday 9 February 2020
The Andrews Labor Government has awarded $5 million in grants to 36 community services to provide more support for Victorians experiencing mental health, alcohol and other drug problems.
The $5 million investment will support community-based mental health, and alcohol and other drug treatment facilities provide the best, recovery-oriented services for Victorians.
Visiting Geelong today, Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley said facilities renewal grants of $846,000 will help Geelong based services improve their facilities for consumers, carers, staff and visitors. Funding will see:
- Barwon Child Youth and Family receive $500,000 for disability access, establish a mix of functional work, counselling, group, and family areas
- Barwon Health receive $315,000 to improve the therapeutic space, admin and staff area, and upgrade the duress system
- Youth Substance Abuse Service receive $31,000 for disability access and facility repairs
The Labor Government has also awarded $300,000 in Mental Health Safety and Privacy Grants to seven mental health facilities to fund the installation of electronic swipe system locks for users of community-based, residential services.
The Victorian Budget 2016/17 invests $356 million in mental health, underscoring the Labor Government’s progress on Victoria’s 10-year Mental Health Plan.
In addition, a further $10 million to improve selected mental health, alcohol and other drug facilities was also recently announced as part of stage two of the Government’s Ice Action Plan.
The $45.5 million Ice Action Plan launched last year, addresses urgent issues to support families, provide treatment for users, protect frontline workers, close down drug manufacturers and make our community safer.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley
“This will help community-based services to meet contemporary standards, and improve treatment for the people they serve.”
“This funding will help create a healthier, fairer and more inclusive society. It is the next step in our 10-year Mental Health Plan.”