Construction has commenced on Queensland’s newest adolescent mental health centre at The Prince Charles Hospital campus.
The Palaszczuk Government committed to delivering the $27 million centre in response to the Commission of Inquiry into the closure of the Barrett Adolescent Centre by the former LNP Government.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, Health Minister Steven Miles and Member for Stafford Dr Anthony Lynham visited the site of what will be the new adolescent extended treatment centre.
"This new 12-bed mental health treatment centre is part of my government’s $68.2 million investment to rebuild and expand mental health services for young people," the Premier said.
"My government is committed to making sure Queensland’s most vulnerable young people have access to highly specialised healthcare services to help them recover and return to their family, friends and communities.
"We are delivering for young people experiencing mental health issues who were abandoned by the LNP.
"I want to thank the patients of the former Barrett Adolescent Centre and their families, and other young people with a lived experience of mental health services for their invaluable input which will ensure that this facility and its services will be safe and effective."
Minister for Health Steven Miles said major construction commencing meant the centre was one step closer to opening.
"Construction starting on this new centre signals a new era in the treatment of adolescents aged 13-18 years with severe and complex mental illness," he said.
"The centre will provide assessment, treatment and rehabilitation that fully integrates mental health services with educational programs delivered by teachers from the Department of Education.
"It will also provide a structured environment with a focus on improving the overall function of young people to increase their capacity and confidence to successfully transition back to their community."
Member for Stafford Dr Anthony Lynham said Queensland Health would provide the clinical services and the Department of Education will deliver an education program in the new centre.
"We think it’s vital that these young people have access to quality educational opportunities and support to continue on their learning pathway as part of their treatment and recovery," he said.
"Out of area families and carers will also be able to access accommodation to facilitate visits and support of young people residing in the centre."
The new centre is expected to be operational by early 2020.
