Premier

Young People At The Table To Discuss Mental Health

28 May 2020

Minister for Youth Ros Spence will today meet with young Victorian leaders to talk about the unprecedented mental health challenges facing young people during the coranavirus pandemic.

Young people, together with experts from Orygen, Beyond Blue, headspace and Switchboard will discuss the impacts of coronavirus and how we can work to improve mental health outcomes for young people in the immediate and long term.

Young people have been disproportionately affected by coronavirus, with loss of employment, increased financial and housing insecurity and social isolation.

They are also reporting a significant increase in mental health concerns and loneliness. Devastatingly, experts predict this will lead to a growth in mental illness and suicide among young people.

Today’s roundtable is a great opportunity to discuss how the Andrews Labor Government can work with the experts to prioritise supports for young people at risk – and the lessons we can learn from the pandemic for future reforms.

The Labor Government has made mental health a priority during the pandemic, providing $59.4 million in surge funding for increased demand for mental health services and an additional $19.5 million to fast track the delivery of recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System’s interim report.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Youth Ros Spence

“It is so important that young people have a seat at the table for these discussions – we want to make sure their voices are heard.”

“We know that young people are bearing the brunt of this pandemic so today is an important first step to making sure they feel supported and valued.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley

“Reforming our mental health system in Victoria is now more important than ever, as more people reach out for help following the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic.”

Reviewed 13 August 2020

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