Released 16/06/2024 - Joint media release
The ACT Government is supporting the community access help earlier and more easily in their mental health journey, so they can get support when and where they need it.
The initiatives funded under the ACT 2024-25 Budget aims to support Canberrans remain healthy in the community and reduce demand on our hospital system.
There is more than $15 million over the next four years for:
- Continued funding of the second Police, Ambulance, and Clinician Early Response (PACER) team to provide acute mental health assessment and care services in the community.
- The co-design of a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth mental health service
- Continued funding for community child and youth mental health support programs including:
- MindMap Online Navigation Portal
- WOKE
- Stepping Stones
- Youth Mental Health Promotion program
- Staged implementation of approximately 10 accommodation support packages as part of the introduction of the Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative
- Deliver a more holistic approach in the Step-Up-Step Down at home program to better address the factors in someone’s life which cause distress
- Additional funding for the Detention Exit Community Outreach program to provide transitional mental health and life skills support for people with a mental illness returning to the community
Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr:
“The ACT Government continues to invest in mental health services so that Canberrans can access care when and where they need it.
“This includes investing in mental health services in our hospitals and health centres as well as in the community.
“Programs like PACER are helping provide appropriate care to people going through acute mental health issues so that they can be supported to stay in the community rather than ending up in hospital.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health, Emma Davidson:
“The funding in this year’s budget ensures the continuation of services that are supporting Canberrans facing mental health challenges to get the help they need in the community.
“When people have early access to mental health support, they are more likely to stay healthy, engaged and connected in their community. The ACT Government is committed to providing accessible mental health and wellbeing support when and where you need it.
“Importantly this year’s budget invests in youth mental health services to support young Canberrans have greater access to support and can grow healthy and happy. Its critical we fund community services like WOKE, Stepping Stones, MindMap and the Youth Mental Health program to keep young people healthy.
“The ACT Government is also committed to supporting culturally responsive mental health services for First Nations people through the co-design of a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth mental health service.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mick Gentleman:
“We welcome this investment, which will help us deliver on our commitment to provide comprehensive and timely mental health support for the Canberra community. The PACER model has proven to be invaluable in addressing mental health crises, offering faster assessments, connecting individuals with vital community resources, and reducing the strain on our emergency response teams.
“By extending this successful program, we are not only bolstering the health and wellbeing of those in crisis, but also ensuring a safer, and more supportive community for all Canberrans. This is a testament to our dedication to innovate and collaborate to address the complex challenges surrounding mental health.”
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Emma Davidson, MLA | Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases