Gippsland PHN welcomes announcement of Medicare Mental Health Centre for Gippsland
Gippsland PHN welcomes announcement of Medicare Mental Health Centre for Gippsland
Gippsland Primary Health Network (Gippsland PHN) welcomes new Australian Government investment to establish a Medicare Mental Health Centre in Sale as part of national mental health reforms.
The new service is expected to open by mid-2027 and will provide free, multidisciplinary mental health support for people experiencing distress or moderate to severe mental health challenges.
The centre will offer immediate and short to medium-term care, with no referral or appointment required, making it easier for people to access support when they need it.
Gippsland PHN can confirm funding for the Sale Head to Health service will cease on 30 June 2027. Since commencing in 2021, Head to Health has played a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of the community in Wellington.
There will be no immediate changes to current services, and people currently accessing support through Head to Health should continue to do so as usual.
Gippsland PHN will work closely with the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing, the Victorian Department of Health, service providers and local partners to support people through the transition.
Gippsland PHN Chief Executive Officer, Amanda Proposch, said the new centre represents an important step forward in strengthening access to mental health care in the region.
“This investment is a significant step forward for mental health care in Gippsland, improving access to free, high-quality support closer to home,” Ms Proposch said.
“We look forward to working alongside partners to ensure the centre delivers integrated, compassionate care that meets the diverse needs of our community.”
There will be opportunities for people with lived and living experience, carers, community members, health professionals and service providers to contribute to the design of the new centre to ensure it reflects local needs, priorities and community identity. Further information will be shared on the Gippsland PHN website in the coming months.
Gippsland PHN will undertake a public procurement process to select a provider for the new Medicare Mental Health Centre. The process will be advertised via Tenderlink. More information about procurement and tendering is also available on the Gippsland PHN website.
People seeking mental health support can access Medicare Mental Health, the national entry point for Commonwealth-funded mental health services, by calling 1800 595 212 or by visiting www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au.
If you or someone you know needs urgent mental health support, please contact:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours)
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 (24 hours)
- Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
In an emergency, call 000.
