Macarthur region residents will soon have free, walk-in mental health support and care with work under way on the new Campbelltown Medicare mental health centre.
Expected to open later this year, the centre will provide on-the-spot support for people in distress or with ongoing care for those with more complex needs.
The centre will be staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including mental health social workers, nurses and peer workers and provide care across extended hours.
Grand Pacific Health will be the provider for the centre.
The federal member for Macarthur, Dr Mike Freelander, along with assistant minister for mental health and suicide prevention Emma McBride making the announcement during a visit to the Campbelltown centre last week.
“Today, we reach another milestone with the Campbelltown Medicare Mental Health Centre,’’ Dr Freelander said.
“When opened it will provide those in need of urgent and ongoing mental health care a place to get the help and support they need.
“Making sure people have access to mental health support is critical to not only helping people reach their full potential, but to see the community thrive.”
Currently 42 centres are open nationally, including 18 in NSW, with plans to establish a national network of 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres.
“The Albanese Labor Government is expanding our network of Medicare Mental Health Centres to provide free support and care closer to home,’’ Ms McBride said.
“Once open, locals will be able to walk into Campbelltown Medicare Mental Health Centre without a referral or an appointment to access free support and care.
“The rollout of 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres, offering free, walk-in mental health support and care, is part of our plan to strengthen Medicare.”
People seeking information or support can connect with Medicare Mental Health by calling 1800 595 212 or visiting www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au.