The Allan Labor Government is making sure communities in Victoria's south-west have the mental health facilities they deserve, with the new state-of-the-art $3.4 million Hamilton Mental Health and Wellbeing Service now officially open.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today toured the new centre, which was delivered through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund (RHIF) - the largest program of its kind in Victoria.
Located in the heart of Hamilton, the purpose-built centre provides a safe, welcoming and therapeutic space for people to access mental health care close to home.
It is home to South-West Healthcare's community-based mental health services, offering assessment, treatment, counselling and support for individuals, families and carers.
The modern, fit-for-purpose centre includes consulting rooms, a multi-purpose education and conference room, reception and staff office spaces, as well as new landscaped outdoor areas - all designed to create a calm and healing environment.
Other features include a dedicated waiting area for children to ensure families feel comfortable and supported when visiting the centre.
The new centre will also support local staff with modern workspaces, helping to attract and retain skilled mental health professionals in the region.
Located near existing primary and acute health services, the new centre strengthens the local mental health system and supports more integrated, community-based care - delivering on key recommendations of the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System.
It is part of the Labor Government's ongoing commitment to give all Victorians access to safe, high-quality mental health care - no matter where they live.
The RHIF - now worth $790 million - provides critical funding for rural and regional health services right across Victoria, ensuring communities can continue to receive safe and high-quality care close to home.
As stated by Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
"We're delivering the mental health services Victorians need, when and where they need them - including in communities like Hamilton, so people can access care close to home in a safe and welcoming environment."
As stated by Minister for Health Infrastructure Melissa Horne
"This state-of-the-art centre is a great example of how we're investing in regional health infrastructure - giving local communities the modern facilities they need to deliver safe, high-quality mental health care, closer to home."
As stated by Member for Western Victoria Region Jacinta Ermacora
"The new Hamilton Mental Health and Wellbeing Service will ensure people in our region have better access to high-quality mental health care in a purpose-built centre that our community deserves."
