Boosting Youth Mental Health Services in Tasmania

The Tasmanian Government is delivering greater access to specialist mental health care at home for young people in Northern Tasmania, with the expansion of the Youth Mental Health Hospital in the Home.

The expanded service will support young people experiencing acute mental health needs by providing intensive, short-term treatment in their own homes as an alternative to hospital admission, where clinically appropriate.

The 2026-27 Budget includes $20 million to boost capacity of Youth Hospital in the Home and extend the youth mental health program.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the program has been successfully delivered in the North West, helping to reduce ED presentations and mental health related admissions for this cohort.

"This expansion to the North means more young people in northern Tasmania will be able to access high‑quality mental health care closer to home," the Premier said.

"Hospital in the Home is an important part of our broader mental health system, providing appropriate care while helping young people stay connected to their families and community.

"Our Government is delivering a strong economy and caring community.

"The May Budget will be a tough one, however, frontline services remain the priority as demonstrated by this commitment."

The service will be delivered by multidisciplinary mental health teams and will work closely with families, carers, schools and community services to support recovery and reduce the need for hospital-based treatment.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Bridget Archer, said home‑based care can deliver better outcomes for young people when clinically appropriate.

"Youth Mental Health Hospital in the Home provides intensive treatment in a familiar environment, which can support recovery and reduce the need for inpatient admission," Minister Archer said.

"We've seen the value of this work in the North West and expanding this service to the North will strengthen access to care and support for more young Tasmanians at a critical time in their lives.

"The service will be up and running next year.

"This Budget, we are making the savings needed, while continuing to deliver the services and build the infrastructure Tasmania must have now, and for the future."

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