Wednesday, 19 June 2024

 Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:20): I rise to update the house on expanded mental health services that are now available across the Brimbank LGA. Recently I visited the Brimbank mental health and wellbeing local, one of 15 services already operating across the state, providing free, easy-to-access mental health and wellbeing support for people in their community and closer to their support networks. Since March 2023 Cohealth, in partnership with Clarity Health Care and the University of Melbourne, has delivered services for Brimbank and the surrounding communities through walk-ins, face-to-face appointments, telehealth and outreach. The Brimbank local is now offering treatment, care and support through telehealth on weekends as well, which means even more people in Brimbank can access mental health treatment, care and support where and when they need it.

The Brimbank local has also introduced assertive outreach workers and, in partnership with Jesuit Social Services, new alcohol and other drug dual-diagnosis workers who will work out in the community and connect with people who may be less likely or unable to attend the local. While I was there, I was fortunate to meet Angela and hear about her positive experiences at the Brimbank local since it first opened. Having expanded services will mean less barriers for people like Angela in the Brimbank area, who can get the support they need when they need it closer to their homes.

The Allan Labor government is ensuring all Victorians will receive the mental health support they need when they need it as we rebuild our mental health system from the ground up. Thank you to the whole team at Brimbank for the amazing work that they do every day supporting the broader community in the Brimbank LGA.