Western Plains locals now have access to free, walk-in mental health support and care with the opening of the new Medicare Mental Health Centre in Dubbo.
The Dubbo Medicare Mental Health Centre was officially opened today by Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.
Located at 106 Talbragar Street, Dubbo, the centre offers free support and care for people in distress, without the need for an appointment, referral or mental health treatment plan.
Staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including mental health clinicians and peer workers, care is tailored to the needs of each person who visits the centre.
The Australian Government is establishing a national network of 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres, including 32 in New South Wales.
Currently, there are 46 Medicare Mental Health Centres open and supporting communities across the country.
Across Western NSW, Medicare Mental Health Centres are open in Bathurst, Young and Wagga Wagga, with centres coming soon in Broken Hill and Wilcannia.
The Commonwealth and state governments have invested $14.35 million in funding for the establishment and operation of the Dubbo Medicare Mental Health Centre.
The centre is commissioned by the Western NSW Primary Health Network and operated by Stride.
People seeking information or support can be connected with Medicare Mental Health by calling 1800 595 212 or visiting www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"The Albanese Labor Government is strengthening Medicare by rolling out a national network of free, walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres.
"Western Plains locals can now walk into the new Dubbo Medicare Mental Health Centre and access support without an appointment or referral.
"We're working collaboratively with the Minns Government to put mental health support and care services in the heart of communities across NSW."
Quotes attributable to Minister Jackson:
"Getting help for your mental health shouldn't be complicated. With this new Medicare Mental Health Centre in Dubbo, anyone can walk in to get free support and care. No appointment, no referral, no paperwork - just help when you need it.
Too often people are left to struggle on their own, but the NSW and Federal Governments are changing that by putting services in the heart of our communities. This centre will make a real difference for people in Dubbo and across the Western Plains."
