Lobbying calls for mental health hub

Mental health provider Mind Australia is lobbying for a new mental health and wellbeing hub to be established in Warragul, as part of its state election advocacy.

The proposed hub would provide free treatment, care and support for people aged 26 and over experiencing mental health and wellbeing challenges, helping people access support closer to home and in their community.

Mind Australia executive director of operations in Victoria Belinda McCullough said people living in Warragul and the surrounding region should have access to community based mental health services that responded to local needs.

"Where someone lives shouldn't determine whether they can access the mental health support they need. Without further Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals, rural and remote communities are particularly at risk, with higher rates of psychological distress and suicide, but lower and less consistent access to mental health services," Ms McCullough said.

"A Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Warragul would provide an important local service for people experiencing mental health and wellbeing challenges, and help connect people with the right support in their community."

Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals were established following the Royal Commission into Victoria's mental health system.

Mind is calling for seven new hubs to be established in areas with significant service gaps.

The organisation also is calling for existing Head to Health clinics in Warragul, Ballarat, Warragul, Wodonga, Hawthorn and Berwick/Officer to transition into Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals.

Mind's broader election platform outlines five priorities for the next Victorian Government:
Expand Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals in priority areas ($161 million)
Provide specialist support for mental health supported housing ($64 million)
Increase youth mental health housing ($12 million)
Strengthen and empower lived experience ($20 million)
Increase the efficiency of government-commissioned mental health services.
Mind is calling on all parties and candidates contesting the election to commit to urgent and sustained investment in mental health.