More free mental health care is coming to the western suburbs, with Maribyrnong and Wyndham among the seven locations where new clinics will be opened from the end of this year.
The state government announced the expansion of its network of Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals on Thursday, with Maribyrnong and Wyndham to receive clinics alongside Mount Alexander, Darebin, Port Phillip, Maroondah and Cardinia.
The new services build on the 15 existing mental health local clinics that were a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System.
The local clinics are designed to act as a ‘front door’ to the mental health system and offer support – delivered in-person, by outreach services or via telehealth – to people experiencing mental illness or psychological distress, including co-occurring substance use or addiction.
The support is delivered with a care plan designed to reflect a person’s goals and preferences and family, carers and supporters can also be involved.
Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt visited the Brimbank mental health and wellbeing local clinic on July 10 to announce that the seven new clinics would soon open across Victoria.
“We are delivering the biggest mental health reform in our nation’s history – and our Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are key to making sure all Victorians can access free and compassionate care, close to home,” said Ms Stitt, adding that the expansion of the network was needed to meet growing demand.
“Victorians have embraced mental health and wellbeing locals, with more than 23,000 people already accessing support, and soon even more Victorians will benefit from this service in their local community.”
Laverton MP Sarah Connolly said she was thrilled that people in the western suburbs would be able to access mental health support in their own communities.
“This is an incredible service, staffed by highly qualified and compassionate mental health professionals,” Ms Connolly said.
Werribee MP John Lister said that the service will be of particular benefit to Wyndham, providing a “welcoming, accessible support close to home for people who need it.”
The seven new Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are expected to open from late 2025.
For more information on the mental health and wellbeing locals, visit: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/mhwlocal
