Headspace Hobart officially open for business

Australia’s newest headspace was officially opened in Hobart today by the Minister for Mental Health and Ageing, Mark Butler.

headspace Hobart is the 33rd headspace to open in Australia. It will help thousands of young people aged 12 to 25 years in Hobart and surrounding areas who are facing mental health challenges each year.

The headspace model provides for holistic care in four key areas – mental health, physical health, alcohol and drug use and social and vocational support.

“Mental health is the single biggest health issue facing young Australians. In any given year 1 in 4 young people will experience a mental health issue,” Mr Butler said.

“The new headspace will ensure that young people living with mental illness receive the right care and support to stay well early in life, which is especially important given Tasmania has the second highest suicide rate in Australia and the highest suicide rate for females.”

Minister for Community Services, Julie Collins, reaffirmed that mental health is a priority for the Gillard Labor Government.

“We made a commitment to improve local mental health services at the last election and this is exactly what we are doing. The opening of headspace Hobart is a huge win for young people in our community.

“The new headspace will give young people in Hobart the help they need to get back on their feet, get through tough times and fulfil their potential.”

Senator Carol Brown said the new service has already proved to be popular with the local community.

“I am delighted that headspace has arrived in Hobart. More than 50 young people have already walked through the doors of this wonderful new service to seek mental health help and advice on other health issues.”

Senator Singh said the location of the new headspace would also benefit young people in surrounding areas.

“By bringing together local allied health professionals, doctors, youth workers and vocational workers in one central place, we’ll be able to better support our young people and give them the best start to life.”

headspace is part of the Gillard Government’s $2.2 billion record mental health package. This package includes $197.3 million over five years to expand the number of headspace sites to 90 across Australia by 2014-15. Once all 90 sites are fully established, headspace will help up to 72,000 young people each year.