Media Response Headspace Update

Questions & Responses

Thought it was a good chance to get another headspace article in after the Federal Government's announcement of a $1.45 billion national package. It will include $617 million for youth mental health, including headspace.

What is the current situation with the campaign for headspace in Monash?

We remain very encouraged by the Federal Opposition’s commitment to fund a headspace in Monash if they win the Federal Election later this year. However we are still seeking a pledge from the current Federal Government that it will do the same.

The advocacy from our young people, including the powerful campaign #RaiseYourHand4MonashYouth is continuing and through continued media coverage and social media we are gaining more community support for these services in Monash.

The campaign for a headspace is also a key plank of advocacy campaigns by the South East Melbourne group of Councils and the Eastern Region Group of Councils in the lead up to the Federal Election.

What are council's hopes of attracting funding for a headspace centre in Monash following this announcement?

Council welcomes the additional money to be spent on youth mental health by the Federal Government however it is unclear where the money will be directed. Council continues to advocate for youth mental health and this includes meeting with Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network about the provision of mental health services offered in Monash specifically for young people.   

However without the support of the Federal Government for a dedicated headspace in Monash, the fact that young people are required to travel outside of the municipality to access a headspace will continue to be a barrier for them to get the mental health support they deserve.

Issued: 18 January 2019
To: Monash Leader
Quoting: Mayor, Councillor Shane McCluskey