- Funding boost of $2 million for Butterfly Foundation over three years to deliver prevention services
- Services include prevention programs for schools and community organisations and system navigation support
- Cook Labor Government committed to supporting the wellbeing of Western Australians
The Cook Labor Government has invested $2 million in the Butterfly Foundation to deliver eating disorder prevention programs and support over the next three years.
The Butterfly Foundation is a nationally recognised charity supporting individuals impacted by eating disorders and body image issues, as well as the families, friends, and communities who support them.
This funding will allow for investment in prevention services and programs for schools and community organisations, and system navigation support, including an online hub providing clear pathways to Western Australian support services.
This delivers on the Cook Labor Government's continued commitment to addressing eating disorders in the State through investment aligned to the Western Australian Eating Disorders Framework 2025-2030 (Framework).
The Framework outlines a coordinated State-wide approach for an individualised, comprehensive, and equitable system of care for all Western Australians impacted by eating disorders.
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can have severe and long-lasting impacts on individuals, with body dissatisfaction affecting 4.1 million Australians.
Helplines can provide individuals with immediate access to support and advice that is confidential, free, and anonymous.
There are various helplines to choose from in Western Australia, including the Butterfly Foundation's National Helpline available7 days a weekon1800 33 4673, and support is also available at Lifelineon 13 11 14.
As stated by Health and Mental Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"It's through investments like this that we can make meaningful change to improve the health and wellbeing of Western Australians living with an eating disorder, and those who care for people living with complex mental health challenges.
"The Cook Labor Government is committed to investing more into our mental health system, and this $2 million funding boost to the Butterfly Foundation will help support prevention services for the next three years and provide high-quality care to Western Australians.
"The Butterfly Foundation is a national leader for Australians impacted by eating disorders and body image issues, so we are delighted to support its services in Western Australia."
As stated by Preventative Health Minister Sabine Winton:
"The Cook Labor Government is committed to supporting prevention initiatives which benefit the lives of Western Australians - eating disorders are complex and can have severe and long-lasting impacts on individuals and their families.
"By investing in prevention programs within schools and community organisations, we can reduce the likelihood of young people experiencing disordered eating and eating disorders.
"Increasing awareness of eating disorders provides key opportunities for early identification and early intervention."
