The Medicare Mental Health Centre in Young was officially launched on Monday by Senator Deborah O’Neill, executive operations for Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) Julie Redway and chief executive officer for Grand Pacific Health Adam Phillips.
The official opening of the facility marked a milestone for accessible mental health care for locals from across the region.
The centre has been providing free, walk-in mental health support to the local community since May 2024, with no Medicare card or referral required, helping residents get the help they need, when they need it.
Mr Phillips described the process getting the project off the ground saying it involved 'a lot of hard work.'
"We've really rallied for this community," he said.
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"For a long time this has been a vulnerable community and has needed both alcohol and other drug services, as well as mental health services, so, it's a really great day to be able to provide these services to the Young community."
Mr Phillips underlined the need the community has had for the service, as well as highlighting the different aspects of the services available at the facility.
"All the people from Young have had to travel for these services, so it's really great to get mental health, alcohol and other drug services as well as family services and first nations services," he said.
According to Mr Phillips, to date, the centre has supported approximately 129 clients, delivering around 1,039 occasions of service.
Operated by Grand Pacific Health and commissioned by Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN), the Medicare Mental Health Centre is funded by the Australian and New South Wales governments under the mental health bilateral agreement.
"The Primary Health Network has a responsibility for pursuing services," Ms Redway said.
"We start with looking at what the identified needs are in our communities, we take a codesign approach to developing services that meet the local needs.
"We're very proud that since May 2023 when we first started on the work of the establishment of these services."
Mrs Redway is very happy to 'have a permanent home in Young and this new renovated facility.'
Senator O’Neill said the service is a welcome and much needed addition to the local community benefitting residents of all ages.
“Labor created Medicare, and only Labor will secure Medicare,” Senator O’Neill said.
“Your postcode should not determine your access to mental health care, and this builds on the investment we have made in the Medicare Mental Health Centre in Wagga Wagga.
“Whether you need short-term support or ongoing care, young or old, we will ensure that a free, mental health service backed by Medicare will be there for you and your family.”
The centre offers immediate support through in-house assessment and care, and links people with longer-term services based on their individual needs.
People can simply walk in during opening hours to speak with a qualified professional.
MPHN CEO Stewart Gordon said the launch highlights a strong commitment to mental health in regional areas.
“This centre ensures people in Young and the region have easy access to mental health support, especially during times of distress,” he said.
“It’s a welcoming space staffed by professionals who are ready to listen, support, and connect people with the care they need.
“Mental health is a top priority in our region, and we know that timely, local access to support can be life changing.
"This centre is a crucial part of that support network.”
The Medicare Mental Health Centre is located at 147A Boorowa Street in Young.
No referral or appointment is necessary.
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