The Australian Government's investment in youth mental health is delivering real results, with more than one million young Australians now supported through headspace centres across the country.
This milestone comes as Australia marks National headspace Day, which shines a spotlight on youth mental health and reminds young people and their families that support is available.
Through a network of 176 headspace centres nationwide, more than 9.5 million free appointments have been delivered, giving young Australians access to early intervention and mental health support when and where they need it.
The Albanese Labor Government is continuing to expand this network, backed by a $211.5 million investment to deliver 56 new, upgraded or expanded headspace services. Once complete, the national network will grow to more than 200 centres.
A key part of this expansion is the rollout of headspace Plus centres, which bring together psychologists, social workers, peer workers and counsellors to provide multidisciplinary care for young people with more complex needs, while maintaining the accessible, youth-friendly model headspace is known for.
Headspace plays a vital role in helping young Australians access support early, before challenges become more serious and require more intensive support.
Around 2 in 5 young Australians experience mental health challenges each year, while three-quarters of mental health conditions emerge before the age of 25.
This year's theme for National headspace Day is Do nothing* this headspace day for your mental health and wellbeing. Do nothing* is about taking a pause from the demands of life because your mental health and wellbeing matter.
If you or someone you know would benefit from more information on headspace visit www.headspace.org.au or call 1800 650 890.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"Today, more than one million young Australians have been supported through headspace centres, a remarkable milestone that reflects the dedication of the staff, clinicians and peer workers who help young people every day.
"More than 9.5 million free appointments delivered through headspace centres show the difference these services are making in communities right across Australia.
"These milestones also highlight the growing demand for youth mental health support and why we are continuing to invest in services that help young people get care earlier.
"The Albanese Labor Government is investing $211.5 million to deliver 56 new, upgraded or expanded headspace services, making sure more young Australians can access free mental health support closer to home, regardless of their postcode or bank balance."
