Regional Victorians will have better access to mental health and alcohol and other drugs support, closer to home, with the latest residential rehabilitation facility officially opening in Bendigo.
Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley toured the new $1.8 million facility today – which is specially designed to treat people with the dual diagnosis of mental health issues and alcohol and other drug addiction.
Operated by Bendigo Health, the new eight bed unit provides a higher level of clinical support and targeted intervention, which is vital to meet the unique treatment needs of this vulnerable group.
People with dual diagnosis are typically affected in different ways. Their assessment, diagnosis, treatment and recovery is more complicated and there is often a higher risk of relapse.
The service will work closely with Bendigo Health’s Adult Community Mental Health Team and external alcohol and other drug treatment providers to ensure people across Victoria are supported when they leave the facility.
The Andrews Labor Government’s $87 million Drug Rehabilitation Plan rapidly expanded adult residential rehabilitation services to help meet demand for drug treatment support. The Labor Government is also establishing four residential rehabilitation facilities in the Grampians, Barwon, Gippsland and Hume regions.
The Labor Government is more than doubling the number of residential rehabilitation beds across the State, with more than half of these based in regional Victoria. Once all beds are operational, around 700 more Victorians each year will be able to access residential rehabilitation services.
Funding for alcohol and other drug services has increased by 57 per cent over the last four Victorian Budgets, providing a record $260 million in this year alone.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley
“Everyone knows the terrible damage alcohol and other drugs can inflict on a community, especially our rural and regional areas – that’s why this investment is so important.”
“This new facility is ensuring people who have a dual diagnosis are receiving the specialised treatment they need during their stay, as well as continued care when they’re back at home.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan
“Having a dual diagnosis residential rehabilitation facility in Bendigo means locals experiencing complex mental health or addiction issues have access to highly skilled clinicians who can help get their lives back on track.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards
“In times of crisis people need quick access to treatment and a support network around them – which is why having a facility like this in Bendigo is so important for people who are struggling with addiction or mental illness.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020