Premier

Greater Access To Mental Health Help – Sooner

28 June 2017

The Andrews Labor Government will invest an additional $20 million per year in clinical mental health services to meet growing demand and support 3,300 more Victorians.

The funding is in addition to the $325.7 million invested in the Victorian Budget 2017/18 and will provide an estimated 50,000 additional community mental health service hours.

The additional investment will provide $16.5 million help adults (aged 16-64) to get support through their local community mental health service.

The Labor Government will also provide $3 million in targeted support for older Victorians (aged over 65) across the 14 Victorian Health Services.

It means more people will be treated earlier, fewer people will fall between the cracks and long term support will be available to those who need it.

An extra $500,000 will be provided to Forensicare, boosting mental health staff and resources for people referred from the criminal justice system.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley

“We know that one in five Victorians will experience and seek support for mental health —that’s why we’re increasing our investment.”

“Not only will this funding mean more people are treated sooner, it will keep our community safer by ensuring Victorians can get the help they need to get well, stay well and keep out of trouble.”

“We are rebuilding our mental health system to ensure Victorians don’t fall through the cracks and can get the help they need, when they need it.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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