Joint media release with Zaneta Mascarenhas MP
Assistant Minister for Emergency Management, Josh Wilson today visited Australia's comprehensive and one-of-a-kind 'Wellbeing Hub' dedicated to supporting first responders and emergency workers.
Delivered by Fortem Australia with funding from the National Emergency Management Agency, the hub provides wellbeing and mental health support for first responders and their families.
Since 2022, the Albanese Government has provided Fortem with more than $16 million to deliver their Support for First Responders program, recognising the considerable impacts that disasters have on the mental health and wellbeing of emergency services workers.
The Assistant Minister cut a ribbon to mark the delivery of Fortem's new Outreach Trailer that will be deployed to support first responders on the scene of emergency situations in rural communities.
The Albanese Government has continued to fund Fortem through the competitive Mental Health Support for Emergency Services Workers grant, which provided an additional $3 million to deliver services in 2026.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Emergency Management, Josh Wilson
"Our response to disasters in Australia depends on the incredible efforts of skilful, courageous, and caring first responders so we must make sure that we look after the broad wellbeing of people who give so much of themselves in very difficult circumstances.
"Fortem's work recognises the pressure first responders carry and supporting them will strengthen Australia's emergency response by ensuring the necessary care and support is provided to those at the frontline of our disaster response.
"This trailer will make an important contribution to supporting rural emergency responders wherever it is needed. It takes support to where they are, removing the barriers of distance, and service accessibility.
"The Albanese Government has been proud to support that work, providing nearly $20 million since 2022 to deliver these critical support services."
Quotes attributable to Member for Swan, Zaneta Mascarenhas
"In moments of crisis, we rely on our first responders. The impact of that work doesn't end when the emergency does. We need to ensure we are looking after the people who look after us.
"I'm proud the Albanese Government is supporting Fortem, whose focus on early intervention and breaking down mental health stigma is making a real difference in people's lives."
