Minister for Mental Health Emma Davidson yesterday tabled the ACT Government's Response to the Standing Committee on Education, Employment and Youth Affairs Inquiry into Youth Mental Health in the ACT.
"The mental health and wellbeing of children and young people is an important priority area for the ACT Government. Early intervention and prevention are key to promoting positive mental wellbeing and addressing the many complex issues that impact the mental health of our young people," Minister Davidson said.
"The ACT Government appreciates and thanks the individuals and organisations who contributed to this inquiry. Their experiences and thoughts about our mental health services are critical to the design and implementation of new initiatives that address the causes of youth mental health concerns in the ACT.
"I extend my thanks to the Standing Committee on Education, Employment and Youth Affairs who developed a comprehensive report of 66 recommendations to strengthen youth mental health services across Canberra.
"Implementing these recommendations requires a collaborative approach to address the many determinants that impact mental health. We are committed to strengthening access and support across human services that young people interact with."
The ACT Government is already acting on these recommendations, such as the $3.156 million funding for the Adolescent Mobile Outreach Services, announced in yesterday's Budget.
"The Adolescent Mobile Outreach Service is a recovery-focused community-based outreach service which supports young people aged 12-18 who are experiencing severe, high prevalence mental health issues.
"This program ensures that our mental health services include at-risk groups with complex issues, who might otherwise face barriers to accessing mainstream or community mental health services.
"A key priority for me as Minister for Mental Health is to create supportive communities that help young people feel safe, secure, empowered, and promote their wellbeing. With this we will be able to ensure that when a young person needs support, they can get it."
