The USU strongly supports the federal and state governments’ initiative in providing significant funding for mental health services with the expansion of the Head to Health program, in rural NSW.
The Head to Health program (https://www.headtohealth.gov.au/) provides a free walk-in service for people to access mental health services without the need for a referral from their GP.
The Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi, recently announced the Government is establishing a Head to Health service in Muswellbrook.
Last year the Federal Minister for Health, Mark Butler announced additional services will operate in rural New South Wales, providing $45.7 million over four years for new centres in Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Young, Bathurst, Coffs Harbour, Muswellbrook and Moruya. (You can read the Minister’s announcement here: https://usunsw.org/mental-health-announcement)
The service in Muswellbrook is due to commence in mid-2023.
“This will be a great asset for these communities and our members should they need assistance with their mental health,” USU General Secretary Graeme Kelly OAM said.
“A number of members have raised concerns as to the availability of mental health services in rural New South Wales, and any initiative to assist people with mental health is to be commended.”
Members are also reminded of the following support:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
MensLine on 1300 78 99 78
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 (children under 12 years)
