COFFS HARBOUR, NSW — The new Coffs Harbour Medicare Mental Health Centre has opened its doors, offering a safe and welcoming space for individuals seeking free mental health support and care without the need for an appointment.
Situated at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre on Earl Street, the facility provides support to those in distress and offers short to medium-term care for individuals with moderate to severe mental health issues.
Emma McBride, Assistant Minister for Mental Health, will visit Coffs Harbour today to officially open the new Medicare Mental Health Centre.
Medicare Mental Health Centres are a key component of the Albanese Government’s initiative to strengthen Medicare. Adults can access free mental health information, services, and support from a team of health professionals during extended hours.
Currently, 26 Medicare Mental Health Centres are in operation, with a total of 61 planned across the country, including 22 in New South Wales.
The Albanese Government has allocated $3.46 million to the local Primary Health Network to commission the Coffs Harbour centre, which will be operated by Open Minds.
Additionally, the recent Budget included a $29.9 million investment to enhance the clinical capabilities of the Medicare Mental Health Centre network, ensuring access to psychologists and psychiatrists.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
“The Albanese Government is building a network of Medicare Mental Health Centres to provide free, walk-in mental health support and care closer to home.”
“The Coffs Harbour Medicare Mental Health Centre offers a safe space for people on the North Coast to seek the care they need in person, without an appointment.”
“Our additional investment in the recent Budget will ensure a clinical uplift so that every centre will have access to psychologists and psychiatrists on call.”
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