The Australian Government is expanding access to free mental health care across the ACT, with a new Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub set to open in Tuggeranong.
Delivered in partnership with the ACT Government, the Kids Hub will provide free mental health support for children aged 0-12 and their families.
The large and family friendly centre is currently being fitted out and is expected to open in late 2026, with outreach services commencing from July.
The service will be operated by a consortium experienced in supporting children and families: Marymead CatholicCare Canberra and Gouldburn, Grand Pacific Health, and Yerrabi Yurwang Child and Family Aboriginal Corporation.
This announcement comes as Canberra's two Medicare Mental Health Centres surpass 20,000 walk-in sessions, providing free, accessible care to people when they need it.
Assistant Minister McBride visited the Tuggeranong Medicare Mental Health Centre with ACT Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, which has delivered over 1,800 free sessions in under a year.
The Canberra City Medicare Mental Health Centre has provided around 18,000 sessions.
Up to 95% of people reported a positive experience across both the centres.
These services form part of the Australian Government's national rollout of 92 Medicare Mental Health Centres, backed by an additional $267.3 million in funding.
The Commonwealth Government is also committed to delivering a national network of Medicare Mental Health Kids Hubs over the next five years.
ACT residents can access free and confidential mental health support or information by calling Medicare Mental Health on 1800 595 212.
Quotes attributable to Senator Gallahger:
"More than 20,000 free mental health sessions is a significant milestone and shows just how valuable these services are for Canberrans.
"Whether it's someone in crisis, a young person looking for support, or a family member seeking advice, these centres are helping Canberrans get the care they need without worrying about cost."
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister McBride:
"The Tuggeranong Kids Hub is good news for families in Canberra who have a child struggling with their mental health and wellbeing.
"Families will be able to get the wraparound care they need - delivered locally and free by a team of experts.
"We know that barriers like cost and distance have too often stopped people from seeking help - but that's changing.
"Mental health is a key part of the Albanese Labor Government's strengthening Medicare agenda."
Quotes attributable to ACT Minister for Mental Health Rachel Stephen-Smith:
"It's great to see a consortium of experienced and trusted providers coming together to deliver Canberra's Mental Health Kids Hub.
"Early intervention can change the trajectory of children's lives. Reducing barriers to access by providing free drop-in and appointment-based services will make a world of difference for children, parents and carers - enabling them to access support when they need it most.
"The involvement of Yerrabi Yurwang Child and Family Aboriginal Corporation will ensure the service is culturally safe, helping deliver against the priority reforms under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap."
Quotes attributable to David Smith MP:
"There is nothing more important than ensuring the health of our community is looked after. It is what I have been hearing at shop stalls and doorsteps, and I am proud to be a member of Government delivering in this area.
"The Tuggeranong Medicare Mental Health Centre has seen over 1,800 free walk-in sessions be provided to people needing support, and all without needing to book.
"Because when you need healthcare you deserve certainty and shouldn't have to worry about the impact on your hip pocket.
"There is even more on the way, with the new Medicare Mental Health Kids Hub set to open in Tuggeranong. This will give our families and young people greater access to vital healthcare we know is needed."
