Young people in Mitchell Shire will soon have better access to mental health support, thanks to $10,000 in funding secured through the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal (FRRR).
The funding will support a new Pop-Up Youth Mental Health Service, led by the Mitchell Youth Council in partnership with Mitchell Shire Council and local mental health providers.
The pop-up service will run from youth rooms in Broadford and Wallan, providing opportunities for community engagement in both group sessions and workshops in safe, youth-friendly spaces. The initiative will include community events to reduce stigma and encourage early conversations about mental health.
Evidence shows the need is urgent. According to the Mitchell Shire Health Profile, 22% of residents experience high levels of psychological distress, and 9% reported being unable to access local support. Youth Council's own surveys found that 55% of young people don't feel comfortable talking about their mental health, with mental health rated as the top issue facing local youth.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall said the project was a vital investment in young people.
"This is a great example of how youth voices can lead to real change. Our Youth Council identified the need, developed the idea and now, with this funding, we can make it happen."
Youth Council Mayor Nic Houghton said young people had been calling for a service like this for years.
"Mental health is the biggest issue for young people in Mitchell. We've heard it again and again through our surveys and conversations with peers."
"This pop-up service will make it easier to get support close to home. It's about removing the barriers and showing that it's okay to ask for help."
"I'd also like to acknowledge the work of former Youth Council members Taylah Macdonald and Heidi Banks, who first identified the service gap and suggested the pop-up model."
The Pop-Up Youth Mental Health Service will begin later this year and run through to October 2026.
