Released 12/12/2025
Uniting will provide vital support for young people in Canberra who have experienced trauma and are experiencing mental health issues.
The Youth Trauma Service, which is a key part of the Youth at Risk Project, will be supported through funding of more than $4 million over two years from the ACT Government and Australian Government.
Minister for Mental Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the new service will fill a critical gap in the ACT’s mental health system by providing trauma-informed care for young people aged 13 to 17 years, or up to 18 if attending school.
“We know that experiences of trauma particularly at a young age can have a profound impact on a young person’s mental health and wellbeing, and can have a lasting impact throughout the course of life,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“Uniting will offer free, innovative and inclusive trauma therapy to young Canberrans. By collaborating with other service providers, young people will have greater access to holistic support.
“This new service will deliver flexible, evidence-informed therapy and navigation support for young people with complex needs and help them access the right care for them at the right time.
“This is about building a more connected and compassionate mental health system. By investing in early intervention and trauma-informed care, we can help prevent long-term impacts and support young people to thrive.”
The service is expected to open to young people in March 2026.
For more information visit the Youth at Risk Project, go to the ACT Government website.
Quotes attributable to Senator for the ACT, Katy Gallagher:
“This new Youth Trauma Service is about giving young Canberrans the support they need early, in a safe and trusted setting. By partnering with the ACT Government, we are investing in practical, trauma-informed care that helps teenagers recover, stay connected to school and family, and get on with their lives.
“Early intervention changes lives. Backing this service means fewer crises, better long-term health and stronger outcomes for young people and their families across Canberra.”
Quotes attributable to Director of Uniting Communities, Dr Andrew Montague:
“Young people affected by trauma benefit most from the wraparound collaborative care that the new hub will be able to provide. Uniting’s experience providing Canberra’s first headspace Early Psychosis service equips us well to offer the right combination of clinical expertise and broader support across alcohol and drug use, family counselling, vocational training and education, life skills and crisis management.
“It’s always best to help young people where they live, so in addition to the new hub, we’ll reach out into the community to provide care where it’s needed most.
“This is one more step towards helping every young person to live their best life possible.”
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases