- The Crisafulli Government has opened a Mental Health Hub in the centre of town in Longreach.
- The Mental Health Hub offers specialist mental health support in the community.
- Service office culturally appropriate programs and is supported by a multi-disciplinary team.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering easier access to health services for regional Queensland by officially opening a new Mental Health Hub in the centre of Longreach.
The relocation of services from the Central West Hospital and Health Service to the new facility marks a significant expansion of mental health care in the regional Queensland and means patients can receive support without having to attend the hospital waiting area.
The Mental Health Hub offers a range of programs and services for adults, youth, and children, supported by a professional team including a psychiatrist, social worker, psychologist, and clinical nurses.
The Crisafulli Government's Easier Access to Health Services Plan is delivering resources to where they are needed most, to diagnose, treat and cure Labor's Health Crisis, while the 2025-26 record health Budget includes the fully-funded Hospital Rescue Plan which will deliver more beds and new and expanded hospitals across Queensland.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the Crisafulli Government was committed to delivering on its promise to heal Labor's Health Crisis by making it easier for Queenslanders to access to safe, high-quality mental health care.
"Community-based hubs, like here in Longreach, are a great example of how the Crisafulli Government is providing easier access to health care for Queenslanders closer to home," Minister Nicholls said.
"With poor mental health affecting one in five Australians, the Crisafulli Government is taking important steps to ensure Queenslanders can access specialist treatment and support for their mental health and wellbeing. "We are committed to establishing new models of care for people presenting to our hospitals who need mental health treatment, activating additional alcohol and other drug rehabilitation services through non-government organisations, and investing in new youth mental health treatment and support services. "Community-based hubs are a vital step in strengthening our mental health system closer to home—ensuring more people get help early, before reaching crisis point. This in turn eases pressure on our emergency departments and helps people find the supports that are right for them." Member for Gregory Sean Dillon said the ongoing expansion of mental health, alcohol, and other drugs services in the Central West is a testament to the health service's commitment to building local capacity. "Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs staff numbers across the Central West have increased by more than 60 per cent—from 12 full-time positions five years ago to more than 20 full-time staff members today," Mr Dillon said. "We know that people living in rural and remote areas, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, face higher risk factors contributing to vulnerability. "Welcoming and culturally appropriate community-based spaces like this hub help reduce stigma around mental health and remove barriers for individuals seeking support."
